The cargo landing craft LCT 8 sank off Carrascal, Surigao del Sur, in the Philippines on November 10, 2026, causing an oil spill that affected coastal waters and the shoreline.

According to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), all 17 crew members, including the captain, are safe. No injuries were reported.

Vessel sank during severe weather

At approximately 05:22 local time, the captain notified the coast guard that the vessel had submerged and was leaking oil. Strong winds and rough seas were reported in the area.

LCT 8 is a Landing Craft Tank, a ramp-equipped cargo vessel designed to transport vehicles, equipment and other freight.

Around 200 metres of shoreline affected

An initial assessment estimated that approximately 800 litres of oil had spilled, contaminating around 200 metres of shoreline.

Responders deployed containment booms and absorbent pads to limit the spread of pollution.

630 litres of contaminated liquid recovered

During the initial response, teams recovered approximately 460 litres of oily water mixture. On November 11, they collected a further 170 litres of oily waste and 390 kilograms of oil-contaminated debris.

The combined liquid recovery total was approximately 630 litres. This cannot be directly compared with the estimated spill volume: recovered oily water includes water and does not represent an equivalent quantity of oil removed.

Cleanup and investigation continue

The PCG continues to monitor coastal waters to determine whether pollution is spreading and whether additional cleanup measures are required.

A marine casualty investigation is underway. The precise cause of the sinking remains undetermined, while the final environmental impact will depend on further assessments and response work.