Mayor John Dalipe mobilizes city government resources to assist the passengers of the ill-fated MV Lady Mary Joy 3 of Aleson Shipping Lines which caught fire in the sea off Baluk-baluk Island, Hadji Muhtamad town, Basilan while enroute to Jolo, Sulu from Zamboanga City shortly before midnight Wednesday, March 29.
Dalipe personally met the passengers and families of those who perished at the local port where the latter were brought after their rescue and recovery. He ordered the immediate release of food, clothing and hygiene kits through the CSWDO as well as medical assistance for those who were rushed to the hospitals.
Initial reports indicate that 10 people including children were killed while several others are still missing following the sea mishap. At least 240 passengers were on board, based on the manifest, according to authorities.
(Source: City Government of Zamboanga Facebook page, photo courtesy by Kathy Wee Sit)