The MV Princess of the Stars so Close and yet…
One of the most striking images of the damage caused by Typhoon Fengshen (local codename: Frank) is that of the MV Princess of the Stars upside down in shallow waters.
The inter-island ferry carrying more than 800 passengers capsized at the height of the typhoon. Only a portion of the hull is now visible above the water, a mere 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) from land. It seems that with such a short distance to safety, more passengers would have made it alive. Alas, so far, only 33 survivors have been found. The fury of the storm and the huge waves it caused made the distance to land seem impossible to cross, except for these blessed few.
I’ve experienced many typhoons in the Philippines, and have seen many many photos of their aftermath. But I will never forget the image of the hull of the boat sitting silently in the grey waters. So close to safety, and yet a distance beyond reach for many. My heart goes out to the families of those who perished.
BBC’s report gives us more information and images from the tragedy:
3 Comments
Mga Istupidong Komentaryo at Pagbabalita Tungkol sa Lumubog na Barkong MV Princess of the Stars
Ini interview ang isa sa mga nakaligtas
Incident 1
Reporter: Sir, isa pala kayo sa mga crew ng barko, mga crew ba ang unang tumalon sa barko? (Walang puso!)
Incident 2
Reporter ng Radyo: Madame, ano ho nararamdaman nyo ngayon? masaya ba kayo? (Mind you, mukhang tulala ang tinatanong!)
Incident 3
Reporter: Tatay, nabalitaan ko na isa kayo sa nakasakay sa infalatable raft pero sa kasawiang palad ang anak nyo ay nahulog sa lifeboat. Tingin nyo, ano ang nangyari sa kanya?
Survivor: Tingin ko nalunod.
PCG: We’re not to blame, when the boat left manila, typhoon signal in the area (metro manila) was only at number 1. (As if naman ang barko ay hindi aandar!)
PCG: Kinatok namin ang (NAKATAOB) barko pero walang response sa loob (Bakit, gawa lang ba sa lawanit ang MV Princess of the Stars?)
[...] she met with Filipino-Americans in Fresno, California, attending mass with them, and discussing the tragedies caused by Typhoon Fengshen. A live video conference with officials back in the Philippines occurred [...]
until now, i can picture out how they fight against the angry waves to save their lives..it breaks my heart….im so sad about this..i pray for their lives.i know some have unfinished businesses but God will be there for them..i pray for their families that they may be strong enough to accept everything..for the children,who have been a victim of mv,take care on your new journey!!…