The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) assisted three local fishermen of a distressed fishing boat at the vicinity waters off Occidental Mindoro yesterday, 07 May 2021.

The PCG District Southern Tagalog received a phone call from foreign cruise ship, MS Charming that they sighted a drifting motorbanca, FBCA Edgar with three passengers on board at vicinity waters 45.33 nautical miles southwest off Lubang, Occidental Mindoro.

According to the fishermen, they encountered engine trouble, causing them to drift for three days when MS Charming sighted them at around 05:39 p.m. on 06 May 2021.

Immediately, PCG Station Occidental Mindoro activated a search and rescue (SAR) team, but failed to reach the target vicinity waters due to unfavorable weather condition.

While waiting for rescue, MS Charming watched over the distressed motorbanca to ensure the safety of its passengers.

At around 05:00 a.m. yesterday, MS Charming informed PCG Station Occidental Mindoro that the drifting fishing boat reached 65 nautical miles west off Calavite Point, Palauan, Occidental Mindoro.

With assistance from Occidental Mindoro Congresswoman Josephine Ramirez - Sato and vessels, LMS Cabra, MV RB Leah, and MV Banton Pearl, MS Charming safely turned over the distressed passengers to the PCG SAR team in good physical condition at around 06:30 p.m.

Upon arrival at Tilik Port in Lubang, Occidental Mindoro, the rescued passengers underwent swab test for their safety and received further assistance.