The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has retrieved a lifeless body after being found floating approximately 2.69 nautical miles northeast of Barangay Gamao, Tingloy, Batangas, yesterday, 12 January 2024.

The Coast Guard Station (CGS) Batangas was alerted by Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) Batangas, informing that a radio call was received from MV Maria Zenaida of Montenegro Shipping Lines Incorporated.

The vessel, traveling from Batangas Port to Abra de Ilog Port, reported discovering a decomposed male body in an orange "Tour de Infanta" shirt, olive green shorts, and a black belt. Preliminary details suggest the individual was estimated to be 25-30 years old, with a dark complexion, medium build, and 5'7" height.

VTMS Batangas was notified to alert nearby vessels transiting in the vicinity waters off Tingloy and Batangas Bay to be on the lookout for the sighted floating cadaver and report immediately to the Coast Guard once sighted.

Personnel of CGS Batangas immediately coordinated with its sub-station in Tingloy to initiate a search and retrieval operation.

Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Tingloy coordinated with local authorities and dispatched a team from Tingloy Port.

CGSS Tingloy immediately coordinated with CGSS Mabini, Barangays Gamao and Pisa in Tingloy for an additional search and retrieval team.

After hours of searching, the PCG was able to retrieve the cadaver.

In coordination with CGSS Mabini, the body was transported to Barangay Mainit, Mabini, Batangas, and turned over to local police for proper disposition and necessary documentation.

The Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) of Batangas Provincial Police Office will conduct an autopsy to determine the cause of death.