MANILA, PhilippinesThe United States Monday dispatched a navy ship and surveillance aircraft from its military command in Hawaii to assist Philippine authorities in scouring the waters off Romblon province for possible survivors from the sinking of the MV Princess of the Stars in the worst sea tragedy yet this year.
The USNS Stockham and a P-3 reconnaissance aircraft were sent to the Philippines to assist in search and rescue efforts to locate the ship passengers, according to the US Embassy.
The United States extends its sympathy to all who have been affected by Typhoon Frank (Fengshen) and its aftermath in the Republic of the Philippines. We deeply regret the loss of life, both on land and from the sinking of the ferry, it said in a statement released Monday.
Offering assistance for search and rescue efforts off Romblon, the embassy said the Stockham, a maritime prepositioning ship that carries supplies and equipment for the US Marine Corps, was to enter Philippine waters late Monday.
As part of the US militarys sealift command, it will carry helicopters expected to join aerial search and rescue efforts off Sibuyan Island. We anticipate that the helicopters will be in position to begin operations later today, the embassy said.