THE PHILIPPINE Coast Guard (PCG) rescued two fishermen on Thursday, April 18, after their motor banca, Mbca D-Krisvyn, caught fire off the coast of Barangay Salabayon, Jose Abad Santos.
Philippine Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao chief of staff Lt Commander Angel Tobias said a concerned citizen alerted their Jose Abad Santos substation regarding the fire at 9 a.m.
The Coast Guard immediately launched a search and rescue operation using Aluminum Boat 233.
The Coast Guard crew successfully rescued both fishermen and extinguished the fire aboard the motor banca. Mbca D-Krisvyn was then towed to the coast for further inspection to determine the cause of the fire and extent of damage.
In an interview, boat operator Agustin L. Takser, 32, stated they first encountered engine trouble during their voyage from Balut Island to Barangay Balangonan before they saw the flames.
Both rescued fishermen are reported to be in good health and have returned home safely.
