Authorities in Surigao City are actively monitoring the sunken MV John Roger, which has submerged off the Balibayon coast. This comes after the vessel sank approximately 600 meters from its original location.
The City Environment and Natural Resources Office (City ENRO) is working with national agencies to assess potential environmental impacts. The vessel had previously run aground on December 16, 2021, during Super Typhoon Odette.
Previous Attempts to Salvage the Vessel
Following its grounding, the Balibayon local government declared the vessel a navigation hazard in January 2024, prompting the city to reach out to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
The Philippine Coast Guard later confirmed the vessel’s ownership and indicated a pending Show Cause Order.
Philippine Coast Guard
- Water quality tests conducted in February 2024 showed no evidence of an oil spill.
- Salvage operations led by a PCG-accredited salvor in May 2025 were unsuccessful.
In June 2026, the city was notified that the vessel had sunk. Reports from local fishermen suggested it may have gone under earlier, on May 19. Environmental monitoring is now a top priority as officials await lab results from recent water samples.
Surigao City's experience echoes similar incidents in the region, where natural disasters have led to maritime hazards, prompting increased scrutiny of vessel management and environmental safety.