Philippine Coast Guard personnel have rescued Eastern Samar Rep. Maria Fe Abunda and Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Agda after the motorized banca they were riding in stalled off the waters of Guian, Eastern Samar during the unveiling ceremony of the historical marker in Homonhon Island on Thursday, March 17.
Aside from the two local officials, also rescued were 14 other passengers on board the FBCA Bencor motorized banca at around 8 a.m.
After learning that the motorized banca encountered engine trouble, Coast Guard personnel immediately deployed three rubber boats to assist the transportation of the passengers aboard the PCG BRP Suluan (MRRV-4406). During that time, the Coast Guard vessel served as the maritime security vessel during the activity.
The rescued passengers expressed their gratitude to the Coast Guard “for ensuring their safety amid the untoward maritime accident.”
“Congresswoman Abunda and Mayor Agda said the incident made them realize the importance of the Coast Guard's presence, specifically in upholding safety of lives and properties at sea,” the PCG said in a statement.
“Hence, they committed to support the construction of the Coast Guard Station Eastern Samar building through fund allocation and lot donation,” it added.
The Spanish Navy Training Ship, Juan Sebastian Elcano arrived in the country to join in the commemoration of the first circumnavigation of the world on March 16, 1521.
The Spanish ship also participated in the unveiling of the historical marker of Homonhon, Guiuan, Eastern Samar on March 17, Wednesday.
Elcano is set to leave for Cebu on March 20, Saturday.