THE Chinese Embassy in Manila yesterday said five Filipino seamen are among 39 crew members reported missing after a Chinese fishing vessel capsized in the Indian Ocean early Tuesday.
“We are sad to learn reports of the capsizing of a Chinese fishing vessel, the Lu Peng Yuan Yu 028 (LPY28), where 39 sailors, including 17 Chinese and five Filipino citizens were confirmed missing,” the embassy said.
“By the directives of Chinese President Xi Jinping, China immediately activated the emergency response mechanism, verifying the situation, sending more rescue forces, coordinating international maritime search and rescue assistance,” the embassy added.
The fishing vessel is owned by Penglai Jinglu Fishery Co. Ltd. based in Shandong province, China.
The embassy said two Chinese vessels have arrived near the last known location of the capsized fishing vessel and began investigations and rescue operations.
The embassy added it is coordinating with the Philippine government regarding the incident.
“The Chinese Embassy also rushed in close coordination with the Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs, Philippine Coast Guard, and other concerned agencies regarding the maritime incident. We pray for the safety of all the sailors as we continue with the operations and coordination,” the embassy further said.
The DFA has yet to issue a statement on the incident.
