PCG tows grounded MV Mirola 1 to shipyard

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announced on Friday that MV Mirola 1, which had grounded in Mariveles, Bataan three weeks ago, has been successfully towed and is now moored at a shipyard in Barangay Alas-asin.

Lieutenant Commander Michael John Encina of the PCG confirmed during an interview that towing operations are underway to move the vessel to a more secure location for further repairs.

The grounded MV Mirola 1 was floated last Thursday after contracted salvor Morning Star conducted patching and repairs on its hull, with the PCG providing security and conducting drone aerial surveillance during the operation.

On July 31, MV Mirola 1—an unregistered vessel without clearance before sailing—ran aground in Bataan waters, prompting the PCG to take custody for further inspection and possible violations.

The PCG is investigating whether MV Mirola 1 and two other sunken vessels, MTKR Terranova and MTKR Jason Bradley, are involved in oil smuggling; oil spill control efforts are ongoing for these vessels, with a state of calamity declared in Bataan and nine cities and towns in Cavite due to the impact.