At least 40 people were brought to various hospitals across Bacolod City last night after fastcraft vessel M/V Ocean Jet 7 slammed into the jetty at the Bredco Port.

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Bacolod station commander, Lieutenant Senior Grade Jimmy Oliver Vingno, said the vessel, originating from Iloilo City, was performing a docking maneuver when it accelerated and struck the jetty.

The impact damaged a dividing wall owned by another ferry company, along with the bow section of the vessel.

Passengers inside the vessel were also thrown from their seats, causing some injuries.

Vingno said emergency personnel were immediately dispatched to the port.

Representatives from Ocean Jet Fast Ferries Incorporated also provided assistance to the affected passengers.

Due to the incident, Vingno said the vessel will be temporarily impounded by the PCG while they conduct a thorough investigation, adding, their initial findings indicate a malfunction with the vessel’s throttles.

He also said the vessel must undergo sea worthiness inspections by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) before they could return the vessel to the company.

Ocean Jet 7 was previously involved in the same exact accident at the Bredco port in September of last year, which resulted in 15 injuries./DGB, WDJ