1 dies, 20 rescued in cargo vessel that runs aground in northern Philippines

A crew member died while 20 others were rescued from a Singaporean cargo vessel that ran aground off northern Philippine province of Ilocos Sur, the country's Coast Guard (PCG) said Saturday.

MV Alam Manis was enroute to China to deliver its cargo of nickel ore on Friday when it was battered by huge swells that drenched the cargo, causing it to lose its stability.

While on its way to San Fernando in northern province of La Union to seek shelter, the ship was again hit by rough seas until it listed and eventually ran aground off Candon City in Ilocos Sur, prompting the skipper to declare to abandon ship.

The PCG said that 20 Filipino crew members were rescued by tug MT Salviscount, but another crew passed away due to heart attack.

There was so far no sign of oil spill within the vicinity waters where the ship ran aground, it added.