BATANES – The three Ivatan fishermen, who were reported missing last Saturday, August 22, after sailing in the northern waters of Batanes, were rescued in Di'nem Island, Thursday, August 27.
According to reports, a group of local fishermen, headed by Dennis Asa, found the fishermen after sighting a boat wreckage in the island. Z
Seeing the debris, the group pushed towards the island despite the challenging, rough seas, hoping to find the fishermen, who have been missing for five days.
Eduardo Elica, one of the rescued fishermen, narrated that they were caught by bad weather while sailing the northern seas of Batanes that made it hard for them to control the boat.
Elica was with Antonio Lizardo and Florentino Alviso.
Because of this, they decided to take shelter in Di'nem island to escape the dangers of the rough seas due to severe tropical storm "Igme".
He also said they exerted every effort to remain safe and healthy for their families.
Elica also recalled seeing passing planes of Philippine Navy, which the fishermen said could have been searching for them.
But to their frustration, the planes were flying at too high an altitude to see them
On the other hand, the Provincial Government of Batanes stated that the three Ivatan fishermen were living symbols of Ivatan resiliency, hope and faith.
The three fishermen are now reunited with their families, even as authorities continue to monitor their health.