On June 10, 2023, a fire broke out on the MV Trans Asia 1, a Philippine roll-on/roll-off vessel, while it was docked and undergoing repairs at FF Cruz Wharf in Mandaue City, Cebu. The incident occurred around 4 a.m. local time, prompting an immediate response from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
The vessel, which has a gross tonnage of 11,457, drew attention due to its precarious situation. In response to the fire, a multi-role response vessel, the BRP Suluan, was dispatched alongside the Central Visayas search operation unit and the marine environmental protection unit (MEPU). Their primary tasks included assessing the situation for any potential oil spills and conducting firefighting operations.
Efforts to control the blaze extended throughout the day, with the fire being extinguished at approximately 7 p.m. Authorities confirmed that there were no signs of an oil spill, alleviating concerns about environmental damage. Initial reports suggest that the fire may have originated from the galley air blower; however, investigations into the exact cause are ongoing.
During the incident, one crew member—among the vessel’s 36-person crew—sustained a minor injury and was subsequently treated at the University of Cebu Medical Center. The ship itself, MV Trans Asia 1, was built in 1980 and is operated by Trans Asia Shipping, affirming its long-standing presence in maritime operations.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire to determine its cause and prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident underscores the importance of safety protocols in marine operations, especially during repairs and maintenance activities.
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