« Reply #108 on: May 13, 2020, 05:12:45 PM »
https://www.facebook.com/groups/rpdefense/permalink/2927870350632126/=====
https://www.facebook.com/navalforceswest/posts/2955171671204347
Updated Statement on the fire incident aboard BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16)
BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16) was able to return to the Port of Cochin, India unassisted and is currently moored there. It undergoes damage assessment and systems evaluation in connection with the fire that broke out at the main engine room of the vessel with lube oil leakage as the apparent cause. Based on initial assessment, one of its main engines must undergo necessary repair to ensure the sea worthiness of the ship and safety of its crew prior its return voyage to the country.
The vessel will stay put to fully restore its operational status with the assistance of the United States Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA). Coordination is being made with NAVSEA and JUSMAG Philippines to work out with the repair requirements needed by the ship. PS16 was acquired from the US and still under the technical support program with them. Repair and restoration period is pegged at 21 days in consideration of the restraint due to COVID-19 but it may be shortened.
F2EN (Fireman Second Class Engineman) Alvin Aldecoa, who sustained superficial burn, is recovering in PS16 while F2MR (Fireman Second Class Machinery Repairman) Joemari Bag-o, who suffered second degree burns, was airlifted to a burn treatment facility at the Sanjivani Naval Hospital in INS Southern Naval Command for proper monitoring and medical treatment. Both sailors are in stable condition. Their families were already notified of their situation. All other personnel onboard PS16 are safe and secured.
Courses of action are now being undertaken to identify the extent of damage and its corresponding cost to repair. The ship's extended stay at port for the repair also provides ample time for the recovery of injured sailors, and to complete the hauling of the remaining 800 thousand pieces of donated facemasks.
Meanwhile, BRP Davao del Sur (LD602) continued its voyage back to the Philippines around 2 pm of May 9 with Filipino repatriates and 200,000 pieces of donated face masks. LD602 is expected to arrive at Manila South Harbor on May 23.
The Philippine Navy expresses its gratitude to the Indian Navy and its government for providing the support and assistance needed in this incident.
The swift reaction of our gallant sailors in this emergency situation bespoke professionalism and skill honed through regular training. This incident will not hamper us to do our mandated mission. Rest assured that safety is and always will be the number one priority of the Philippine Navy.
« Last Edit: May 14, 2020, 02:03:31 PM by adroth »
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