A roll-on/roll-off cargo vessel was left dead in the water after an engine-room fire caused mechanical failure while it was traversing waters off the Surigao Strait on 1 February 2026.

According to the Philippine Coast Guard, the MV Maria Felisa was en route from Port of Benit in San Ricardo, Southern Leyte, to Lipata Port in Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, when a fire broke out inside its engine compartment.

The Coast Guard said it received a distress report and immediately dispatched personnel to respond to the incident.

Initial reports showed that the vessel’s crew managed to contain the fire, but the incident rendered the ship dead in the water about 0.85 nautical mile off Bilaa Point, Barangay Punta Bilar, Surigao City.

PCG assets were deployed to provide assistance and ensure the safety and security of passengers and crew. The MV Binibining Liloan, a sister ship of the MV Maria Felisa, also provided support during the operation.

Another vessel, MV Maria Vanessa, conducted ship-side towing of the stricken ship toward Lipata Port, with the Coast Guard escorting the operation to ensure safe navigation.

At around 3:58 p.m., the vessels arrived at Lipata Port, where all 92 passengers were able to disembark safely.

Passengers were assessed by the Surigao City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office in coordination with the Philippine National Police Maritime Group and the Bureau of Fire Protection.

According to the vessel’s master, the MV Maria Felisa departed Port of Benit at about 12:20 p.m. bound for Surigao City. At around 1:30 p.m., the crew detected a fire in the engine room and immediately carried out firefighting procedures, preventing the blaze from spreading to other parts of the vessel.

A review of closed-circuit television footage indicated that the fire originated from elevated temperature in the lube oil filter, which led to overheating of machinery.

The PCG said it has coordinated with the Maritime Industry Authority for further investigation and appropriate action.