The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) responded to a reported maritime incident involving a half-submerged unnamed fishing banca with nine fishermen on board at vicinity waters off Caluya Island, Antique on 02 December 2020.

Upon receipt of report, the Coast Guard District Western Visayas directed personnel of the Coast Guard Station (CGS) Antique, Coast Guard Station (CGS) Aklan and BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV-4411) to conduct search and rescue (SAR) operations.

While underway, PCG personnel established radio communication with all transiting vessels near incident area for possible assistance.

MV Eduardo Uno received the message and consequently found the distressed fishing banca between Caluya Island and Maniguin Island.

The crew of MV Eduardo Uno safely rescued the fishermen who were all declared in good physical condition when they received further medical assistance from PCG medical personnel upon arrival at the Loboc Port in Iloilo City.

According to the rescued fishermen, the incident occurred after they encountered strong waves while on a fishing venture at vicinity waters off Caluya Island.

After medical check-up and profiling, they were provided with meals and were ferried to Baluarte Elementary School in Iloilo City for temporary shelter while coordinating their transport to their respective home towns in Cebu province.