A motor banca sank off Rapu-Rapu, Albay on Friday, Oct. 14, but the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) came just in time to rescue all 15 passengers and one boat crew onboard.
Motor banca “Rocenz 3” was traversing the vicinity waters of Brgy. Batan en route to Poblacion when it experienced engine trouble around 6:30 a.m., according to boat captain Rogelio Barcelona Jr.
Big waves hit the boat which caused it to submerge, he added.
Luckily, ferry boat MV RLMC Ferry I witnessed the incident and immediately radioed PCG Sub-Station Rapu-Rapu for assistance.
Search and rescue teams were dispatched into the area to help the distressed passengers – which included a baby – and boat crew.
“The passengers and crew were in good condition, and were transported back to Barangay Batan,” the PCG said.
Meanwhile, MV RLMC Ferry I towed the distressed motor banca to the shoreline of Brgy. Batan.