An investigation is underway after a fire broke out on the M/V Meridian Dos Tacloban at Manila North Harbour on Wednesday evening, injuring three crew members. The incident occurred on 3 December while the vessel was preparing to depart with container vans on board.

The blaze began shortly after 6 p.m., with thick smoke seen rising from the cargo ship as it remained docked in Tondo. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) raised the incident to a second alarm, deploying around 30 fire engines from both government units and volunteer groups.

Firefighters worked for nearly three hours before declaring the fire fully extinguished at approximately 8:45 p.m.

Authorities later confirmed that the fire originated in the engine room of the general cargo ship Meridian Dos, a 4,222-dwt vessel built in 1991 and operating in the Philippines since 2014. The ship measures 94 metres in length and carries containers and general cargo.

A safety officer coordinating with Manila North Harbour Port Inc. and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) reported that emergency teams had responded quickly to assist crew members.

The officer said three individuals were injured and were taken to the nearest hospital for prompt medical treatment. Their present condition has not yet been released.

Officials added that the rapid response helped prevent the fire from spreading to lower decks or nearby vessels berthed at the port. The total extent of the damage remains unclear and will be determined through engineering assessments and cargo inspections.

Both the PPA and BFP confirmed that a formal investigation is now in progress. Fire investigators stayed on site overnight to examine the affected areas, collect evidence and establish the timeline of events.

Authorities said the inquiry will include interviews with the crew, a review of port surveillance footage and an inspection of the vessel’s equipment logs.

A survey of the Meridian Dos has also been planned to assess the level of damage following the incident. Officials added that findings from the investigation may lead to safety advisories, mandatory checks on similar vessels or administrative action if any negligence is identified.

The PPA reiterated that safety remains its priority, while the BFP stated that investigators are continuing to determine what caused the fire.

References: thechronicle, hatawtabloid