THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Siargao Island promptly responded to a reported maritime incident where in a motorbanca identified as Mbca Nemo has been submerged at vicinity waters off Rock Island, General Luna, Surigao del Norte yesterday, 04 January 2025.
At approximately 900 meters away from the shoreline, PCG Search and Rescue (SAR) Team composed of Coast Guard Sub-Station General Luna and Coast Guard Special Operations Group – Siargao immediately proceeded to the reported location onboard a PCG Rubber Boat to conduct search and rescue operation.
Upon arrival, PCG SAR team positively sighted the reported motorbanca wherein they successfully rescued one (1) individual along with the submerged motorbanca which was then brought towards the shoreline of Brgy. Cabitoonan, General Luna, Surigao del Norte.
Upon reaching the shoreline, it was initially assessed that the rescued individual appeared to be in good physical health condition without any injuries incurred from the onset of the incident.
During the conduct of inquiries, the rescued individual was identified as Elvin Escaret, 32 years of age and a resident of Brgy. Cabitoonan, General Luna, Surigao del Norte. Accordingly, at about 8:00am of 04 January 2025, Mbca Nemo departed from the shoreline of Brgy. Catangnan, General Luna, Surigao del Norte carrying 3 individuals who were surfing enthusiasts enroute to the surfing spot.
Upon arrival to the destination, he dropped off the surfers and awaited the surfers to return back to the mother boat. While waiting, Mbca Nemo suddenly encountered rough to very rough sea condition associated with continuous waves which battered their boat causing the portside outrigger to be broken resulting for the boat to eventually submerged.
With the said incident, the Station Commander of Coast Guard Station Siargao Ensign Roy Christopher R Orillaneda urged the boat operators in the Island to be extra vigilant while venturing at sea particularly during the presence of unpredictable weather and unfavorable sea conditions in order to avoid occurrence of similar incidents in the future thereby ensuring the safety of life and property at sea.
Editor’s Note: This article has been sourced from the Official FB Page of CGS Siargao Facebook Page.
