The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil L Gavan PCG, acknowledged the efforts of the Coast Guard District Bicol (CGDBCL) under the leadership of Commodore Ivan Roldan PCG for a successfully carried out rescue and towing operation in the vicinity waters off Cabugao Bay, Virac, Catanduanes on 17 May 2025.

The said undertaking is part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for the PCG to continuously and effectively perform its mandated functions.

Through this rescue operation, four Norwegian nationals onboard the SY NORA Simrad sailboat that was found drifting due to a broken rudder in the said location have been brought to safety.

Further, after confirming the sailboat’s position through direct communication with the vessel’s contact and aerial surveillance findings, a towing operation was launched. The tugboat M/T Iriga was dispatched from Legazpi Port, carrying a Deployable Response Team composed of PCG personnel who will provide assistance and safely tow the vessel toward the port of Catanduanes.

All four crew members received immediate medical evaluation from CG Medical Station Bicol upon arrival and were reported in good health.

Timely and coordinated operations highlight the Coast Guard District Bicol’s unwavering commitment to maritime safety and its capability to respond swiftly to emergencies involving both local and foreign vessels within the country’s maritime domain.

“I commend Coast Guard District Bicol and Captain Renan Alvarez along with its 9 crew onboard M/T IRIGA of Artking Shipping Services for their professionalism, vigilance and selfless devotion to serve all users of our seas, wherever, whenever. Said inspiring tale of humanitarian response in a far and treacherous seas is a proof of the unique capability the PCG and the maritime industry teamwork has become through the years. Bravo Zulu,” Admiral Gavan expressed.