Cargo vessel Theresa I capsizes during loading at Cebu cement port , Philippines

Incidence - The Philippine-flagged cargo vessel MV Theresa I capsized during cargo operations at APO Cement Port in Naga City, Cebu, Philippines, on 11 March 2026. The vessel reportedly developed a severe list while loading cement cargo and conducting de-ballasting operations at the berth, eventually overturning alongside the pier.

During the incident, a mooring line snapped due to the sudden listing, striking a dockworker who later died in hospital. Philippine Coast Guard responders rescued an engine crew member trapped inside the engine room after the vessel capsized. Authorities confirmed that all 19 crew members aboard the vessel were accounted for and safe. A 100-metre oil containment boom was deployed around the partially submerged vessel to prevent potential marine pollution.

Impact - The accident highlights stability risks linked to cargo loading imbalance and ballast management during port operations. Such incidents can disrupt terminal handling operations, increase safety risks for port workers, and trigger environmental protection measures at busy regional bulk terminals.