COTABATO CITY – Eight fishermen were injured in an explosion that destroyed their fishing boat while it was docked near the shoreline of Barangay Calumpang in General Santos City on Tuesday, April 22.

Initial reports from local radio stations said the group was preparing to sail to Mati City in Davao Oriental when the fuel tank of their vessel, the F/V John Paul D, allegedly ignited and exploded.

The blast left all eight individuals on board with burns and injuries. The victims were identified as Graciano Maglasang, Junard Canania, Ramil Abrigana, Sunny Dalhag, Jiel Sarajena, and three relatives – James, Jimmy, and Jennifer Purog.

Local officials confirmed the boat was damaged beyond repair.

Fishing Boat Explosion Probe Ongoing

General Santos City, dubbed the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines,” is home to one of the country’s largest fishing industries. Thousands rely on fishing and fish processing for their livelihood, with many boats sailing daily from its coastal barangays to the waters of Mindanao and beyond. Safety on fishing vessels is a constant concern, especially for small-scale operators.

Emergency responders from the city’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) immediately brought the injured to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The Police Regional Office-12, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Coast Guard in General Santos are conducting a joint investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. Authorities said a full report will be released once documentation is complete.

About The Author

John Unson

John Unson is a veteran Filipino journalist who serves as a staff writer for the regions “Central Mindanao and BARMM” at The Philippine Star. He covers news and events in Mindanao — especially in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the broader Central Mindanao area. His reporting spans a wide range of topics including security incidents, terrorist-related developments, drug enforcement, smuggling operations, social issues, and regional politics.

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