Joint authorities have ensured the safety of two individuals aboard a distressed yacht that ran aground near the shoreline of Sugicay Island, Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro today, 04 March 2024, at approximately 12:30 noon.

Barangay Chairman Nemia Santillan of Sitio Bangkal, Barangay San Juan, Bulalacao immediately notified the Coast Guard Sub Station (CGSS) Bulalacao personnel and immediately organized a search and rescue team, swiftly reaching the reported location to verify and extend assistance.

The distressed yacht, wherein a married couple are onboard identified as Mrs. Belen Sidell (41 years old, Filipina) and Mr. Jon Sidell (63 years old, American), had departed from Poblacion, Bulalacao, on 03 February 2024, en route to Sugicay Island. The boat anchored with an estimated depth of 10-15 meters upon arrival at the island.

This morning, the couple's planned kite surfing activity faced challenges with water currents and winds, causing the yacht to drift and ultimately run aground.

The Coast Guard Sub Station Bulalacao team, in collaboration with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management patrol boat, successfully towed the yacht to safety, approximately 150 to 200 meters from the shoreline of Sitio Bangkal.

Both individuals were reported to be safe and in good physical condition.

During low tide, a thorough inspection will be conducted on the Malaysian-registered catamaran, "Off the Hook," to assess any incurred damage.

Notably, no traces of oil spills have been observed in the surrounding area.

Around 5PM, the Coast Guard assisted the rescued couple going to a beach resort located at Barangay San Roque to transport them back to Cabalwa, Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro and will return the next day.

At approximately 5PM today, the Coast Guard provided assistance to a rescued couple, facilitating their transportation to a beach resort in Barangay San Roque to Cabalwa, Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro, with plans for their return the following day.