With the Philippines cut off by Japanese forces the War Department attempted to use blockade runners. Some were to make the attempt from Australia or Java, but some were to make the attempt directly from the United States. One recommendation, carried directly to the President of the United States, was the acquisition by bareboat charter and use of three World War I destroyers that had been converted to fast banana carriers, one immediately available in New Orleans. Cargos for two other vessels, then in the Caribbean, were to be sent to await their availability in New Orleans. Delays occurred, but "Masaya" departed New Orleans on 2 March 1942 with "Matagalpa" following on 11 March and "Teapa" on 18 March. All were delayed for repairs in Los Angeles with reloading for Corregidor. They reached Hawaii too late to relieve Corregidor. The ship was instead sent to the Southwest Pacific Area, entering the Southwest Pacific Area command's permanent local fleet on 12 March 1942, where in an effort to support operations in Buna she was bombed and sunk five miles to the east of Oro Bay, New Guinea on 28 March 1943. Casualties were 10 killed + 1 DOW/4 wounded