The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) assisted in rescuing 41 passengers and nine crew members, including the boat captain, of a half-submerged motorbanca in the vicinity waters off Barangay Pilar, San Antonio, Northern Samar, yesterday, 02 August 2023.

MBCA SPIRIT departed from Victoria, Northern Samar, going to the municipality of San Vicente.

While underway, it encountered big waves which damaged its bow.

Immediately, the PCG, MDRRMO San Antonio, MPS San Antonio, and local fishermen conducted joint search and rescue (SAR) operations.

The affected individuals were transferred to MBCA LEANBE, which transported them to San Vicente.

The joint SAR team also assisted four passengers who needed medical attention until the attending physician declared they were in good physical condition.

Meanwhile, three fishing bancas towed the MBCA SPIRIT to San Antonio, Northern Samar.