The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Station Surigao del Norte assisted distressed passenger vessel, MV VINCE GABRIEL 4 carrying 49 passengers and eight crew members at the vicinity waters off Bayagnan Island, Surigao City yesterday, 22 July 2021.

The PCG dispatched a Deployable Response Group (DRG), composed of personnel from the PCG Station Surigao del Norte and PCG Special Operations Unit – Northeastern Mindanao, on board PCG Patrol Boat (PB) - 151 to conduct search and rescue (SAR) operations.

The PCG team sighted MV VINCE GABRIEL 4 and coordinated with its master who decided to move at a slow speed until it reached its port of destination without further untoward incidents.

Upon arrival, the passengers and crew members confirmed they were all in good physical condition.

According to the crew, MV Vince Gabriel 4 departed from Dapa Port, Surigao del Norte bound for Surigao Baseport, Surigao City.

While transiting at the vicinity waters off Hinatuan Island, MV Vince Gabriel 4 encountered huge waves and strong winds which battered its astern portion, causing seawater to gradually enter the vessel’s deck. The passengers panicked because of said incident.

PCG Station Surigao del Norte Commander, Commander Elaine Pangilinan reminded crew members and passengers to stay vigilant and alert while venturing into sea, especially in times of inclement weather and unfavorable sea condition, to avoid loss of lives and properties at sea.