The Philippine Coast Guard, on Saturday, announced that they were coordinating with a China shipping company appointed surveyor on a probe of an alleged collision  between a Philippine fishing banca and the Chinese-flagged vessel MV TAI HANG 8.

According to a statement, the PCG coordinated with maritime services company Pandiman Philippines, which the Tai Hang Shipping Company Ltd. appointed  to carry out a transparent and thorough investigation to assess the cause, nature, and extent of the alleged collision.

The Tai Hang Shipping Company Ltd., as well as the Ambassador of China, had acknowledged that they received the PCG’s official letter on the incident.

On December 5, Chinese vessel MV TAI HANG 8 allegedly collided with a Filipino fishing banca near Paluan, Occidental Mindoro, and continued sailing, leaving five individuals adrift on the sinking boat for over four hours until rescue could be provided.

The victims have since been declared in good condition and turned over to their families on December 5, while PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan warned that the PCG would go after anyone who committed offenses within Philippine waters.

Pandiman Philippines has since assessed damages and disclosed reports to the PCG for further action. — DVM, GMA Integrated News