ALAMINOS CITY, Pangasinan – Three women from the province of Pampanga drowned when their motor banca capsized in the sea of Barangay Pandan here on Sunday morning, March 22.
Police identified the fatalities as a 45-year-old from Barangay Calulut, San Fernando; a 55-year-old from Porac, and a 50-year-old also from Porac, all real estate agents.
Investigation said MB Venus with 14 passengers suddenly capsized due to strong sea currents. The victims were trapped inside the banca as it submerged.
The victims were retrieved and taken to hospital where they were declared dead.
The banca was operated by a 52-year-old resident of Barangay Pandan. He faces charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide.
Police are determining other possible lapses by the operator, including safety measures and passenger capacity.