• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
Three missing fishermen from Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental, returned home on Sunday, January 25, following a successful rescue operation conducted by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
MV MAUD, a Singapore-flagged bulk carrier, while transiting waters off Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte, located the three fishermen who had been stranded on the Sulu Sea, attempting to survive. The Philippine Coast Guard District Western Visayas (CGDWV), through Coast Guard Station (CGS) Iloilo, provided the necessary assistance to rescue the fishermen.
Hinoba-an Mayor Daph Anthony Reliquias confirmed in an interview that the rescued fishermen are all residents of Barangay Culipapa, Hinoba-an.
The three were reportedly adrift at sea for two days and one night following the sinking of their fishing boat, MB Princess Henna.
“Due to the current and strong winds, their boat capsized in the middle of the sea,” the mayor said.
After their rescue, all fishermen were found to be in good physical condition, with no immediate medical concerns.
Meanwhile, an investigation has been initiated to determine the circumstances that led to the sinking of their boat.
The rescued fishermen were subsequently escorted to Coast Guard Station Northern Negros Occidental for proper turnover to their respective families.
The PCG recognized the commendable humanitarian act and outstanding seamanship of the crew of MV MAUD for rescuing the three Filipino fishermen found in distress in the Sulu Sea.
Mayor Reliquias also announced that the municipality will extend financial assistance and food packs to the fishermen.
“We will provide financial assistance and food packs. Each of them will receive P10,000 since they have lost their livelihood,” he said.*
