Photo courtesy: MEP-ERG STL
THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed that all 21 crew members aboard three molasses-laden barges are safe and sound following a grounding incident off the coast of Barangay Talisay, Calaca City, Batangas.
The incident, which occurred around 9:00 AM on July 19, 2025, was attributed to strong winds and currents from Tropical Storm Crising and the Southwest Monsoon.
The swift response of the Coast Guard Sub-Station Lemery, in coordination with the Marine Environmental Protection – Enforcement Response Team (MEP-ERT) Balayan and local barangay officials, ensured the safety of the crew. The grounded barges, EE Margarette, Amazon River, and Yangtze River, were carrying a combined total of over 4,700 metric tons of molasses.
Initial reports suggest that the barges, which had been anchored off Barangay Piro, Balayan, Batangas, were caught off guard by the intensifying storm.
The powerful winds and currents caused their mooring lines to snap, resulting in the barges drifting ashore and running aground. Thankfully, all crew members escaped without injury. A subsequent coastal assessment revealed minor leakage from Barge EE Margarette, resulting in slight discoloration and odor in the surrounding area. However, experts from the Marine Science Investigation Group – Southern Tagalog determined that the molasses leak posed no immediate environmental threat, given the organic and water-soluble nature of the cargo and the location of the grounding.
Following the incident, the PCG advised the vessel owners to file a marine protest with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Calaca City.
Discussions between LGU officials and vessel representatives are underway to plan for the refloating and removal of the grounded barges. The tugboats Robina I and Robina II, which had been towing the barges, are currently sheltering in the Balayan Anchorage Area, ready to assist in towing operations once weather conditions improve. The story highlights the collaborative efforts of various agencies and the fortunate outcome of the incident, emphasizing the safety of the crew and the minimal environmental impact.
