A deck cargo vessel MSCI 1 (IMO 1146655) grounded off Badoc, Ilocos Norte, Philippine, on June 8, after what local authorities described as an intentional emergency beaching during adverse weather conditions. The incident resulted in hull damage, a worsening list, and a petroleum leak into coastal waters.
The vessel, a bow-ramp landing craft-type deck cargo ship (locally classified as an LCT), was transporting gravel and had 15 crew members onboard at the time of the incident. Initial reports indicated that the master intended to evacuate most of the crew while a small number of officers remained onboard to monitor the vessel’s condition.
By June 9, the situation had deteriorated significantly. The vessel developed a pronounced list, with seawater entering over the gunwales. All crew members subsequently abandoned ship safely and were reported to be in good condition.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), together with other national agencies, deployed spill response teams after confirming a petroleum leak from the stricken vessel. Containment booms and absorbent materials were used in an attempt to limit shoreline contamination, although shifting sea conditions reduced the effectiveness of initial containment measures and allowed a localized oil slick to reach parts of the coast.
Authorities indicated that the leak is believed to originate from the engine room rather than the main fuel tanks, reducing – but not eliminating – the risk of a larger-scale spill. Response teams continue shoreline recovery operations, including sorbent-based cleanup and monitoring of affected coastal areas.
Local environmental officials instructed the vessel’s operator to urgently secure the leak source to prevent further contamination. A multi-agency response structure, involving maritime safety, environmental, and law enforcement bodies, remains active in the affected area.
MV MSCI 1 was previously known as Lei Ye 666 and was built in 2011. The vessel underwent port state control inspection in Taizhou, China, in 2025, during which 10 deficiencies were recorded, including issues related to watertight integrity and main engine condition.
