Authorities are investigating an incident that led to the capsizing of a boat carrying 103 hogs in the waters of Barangay Punta Cogon, Roxas City, on December 25.
The boat overturned around 10 p.m. after strong waves struck, causing significant damage to the vessel’s wooden outrigger.
Earlier reports said the boat’s captain was allegedly intoxicated at the time of the incident and also unfamiliar with the route to Barangay Banica, where the hogs were supposed to be delivered.
Barangay Kagawad Yolando Besa said the boat came from Bohol and was transporting 103 hogs. Six of the hogs were reported to have died after consuming large amounts of water.
Besa said that according to the five crew members, including the boat captain, they did not realize that the boat had drifted into shallow waters.
He clarified that the shipment had all the necessary permits for transporting the animals.
The crew reported no injuries, but the mishap caused the loss of some livestock. Authorities continue to investigate the incident.
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.