USS Guardian's mast, funnel removed

MANILA, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- The Philippine coast guard said workers removed the USS Guardian's mast and funnel after work on the dismantling of the U.S. Navy minesweeper resumed.

The Guardian hit a reef Jan. 17 while under way from Subic to its next port. Navy officials determined the vessel would be cut into pieces rather than refloated.

Private contractors hired by the U.S. Navy began salvage operations on the ship following the incident, the Philippine Daily Inquirer said.

Philippine coast guard Lt. Cmdr. Armand Balilo said Tuesday that the team has also begun clearing the equipment deck, removing the sonar winch, preparing the mast for lift and clearing loose materials.