PCG rescues 9 from distressed boat off Palawan tourist spot
(Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
(UPDATED)
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) rescued nine individuals aboard a motorbanca that lost power while sailing off Big Lagoon, a popular tourist destination in El Nido, Palawan on Sunday, Dec. 28.
A report from the PCG said a distress call was received by personnel of the Coast Guard Station (CGS) Northern Palawan at 5:56 p.m. that a motorbanca, "MBCA Aquaholic," was stranded at the Big Lagoon.
The boat’s captain reported a gear-lock malfunction that caused the axle to move forward and left the vessel without propulsion.
A PCG search and rescue team responded and located the motorbanca at about 6:55 p.m.
Six tourists and three boat crew members onboard were found safe and accounted for. The PG earlier said there were only six individuals aboard the vessel but a follow-up query showed the boat crew members were among those rescued.
The PCG said the rescued individuals had no injuries and were in good physical condition when found.
Meanwhile, the PCG escorted the boat safely toward Telesfura in El Nido.
The PCG reiterated its reminder to boat operators in El Nido to ensure their boats’ engines are properly checked before going on trips, especially amid tourist activities in the area.