THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has rescued four Filipino crew members, one Korean dive master, and three Korean tourist passengers of a distressed tourist boat in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro, yesterday, 26 December 2023.
The tourist boat, MBCA Monaliza experienced engine failure due to a malfunctioning clutch lining during their return journey from Discovery Diving Spot in Sablayan.
The boat captain contacted the Coast Guard Sub-Station Sablayan around 1:23PM, requesting immediate assistance.
The PCG promptly launched a search and rescue (SAR) operation and located the distressed tourist boat approximately nine nautical miles southwest of Sablayan Port.
The PCG towed the tourist boat to Sablayan Port with five crew members, including the boat captain and dive master, and the three Korean tourist passengers, all in good physical condition:
Five crew members , Christian Lee Aracan, boat captain, 27; Alexander Tria, crew, 37; Aldrin Pacheco, crew, Erick Aglinis, crew, 37 ; Seon Cheon Choi, dive master, 36 of Barangay Poblacion, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro
Three Korean tourist passengers are Bae Woori, passenger, 32; Choi Soeun, passenger, 36; Lee Hyeokho, 32.
Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog Commander, CG Commodore Geronimo Tuvilla, has commended the Coast Guard Sub-Station Sablayan for their swift response, emphasizing the Coast Guard’s commitment to maritime safety.
CG Commodore Tuvilla said this recognition showcased the district’s readiness to handle emergencies, ensuring the safety of lives at sea.
