The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has aided two of the six missing fishermen in Surigao del Norte on 02 March 2024.

Based on the investigation, the six fishermen departed Barangay Canlanipa, Surigao City, at around 5PM on 28 February 2024 for a fishing venture at the vicinity waters off Limasawa Island.

While transiting the vicinity waters off San Ricardo, Southern Leyte, at around 5:45AM on 29 February 2024, they encountered a very rough sea condition, which damaged their bow and caused seawater to gradually enter their motorbanca.

The fishermen managed to call to their relatives to report the incident and seek help, until they eventually lost network connection.

The two survivors, identified as 36-year-old Jesmar Besing and 35-year-old Joseph Mapalo, swam together until they drifted towards the Bohol Sea, where they separated due to strong current.

FBCA GOLDEN TOP 888 was traversing the said vicinity waters and noticed the survivors yielding for help. They rescued the two fishermen and coordinated with the authorities for further assistance.

The Coast Guard Station Surigao del Norte and other concerned government agencies assessed the survivors, who said they were experiencing body weakness and suffered minor abrasions due to the incident.

Upon arrival at the Surigao Baseport, the two fishermen brought to the nearest hospital for further medical treatment.

The Coast Guard Station Surigao del Norte said they continuously coordinate with concerned government agencies and maritime stakeholders for possible sightings of the four missing fishermen.

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