PCG: 20 passengers were rescued by the elements of Coast Guard Station (CGS) Western Samar when a service motor banca went half-submerged in the vicinity waters between Brgy Tinaogan and Brgy Darahoway Guti in Catbalogan yesterday evening, April 13.

A call was received from a concerned citizen informing the said incident and seeking for assistance. Immediately, CGS Western Samar Quick Response Team (QRT) proceeded to the area and conducted search and rescue operations.

The team successfully rescued all 20 passengers including the four crew and ferried them going to Pier 1, Catbalogan City. The rescued passengers and crew were given medical assistance by CGS Western Samar Medical Service together with City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) personnel of Catbalogan. All passengers and crew were in good physical condition.

Investigation revealed that said motor banca operated by Mr John Milton Gating hit a solid object near the engine and encountered unfavourable weather condition in the area. The motor banca slowly taking in waters causing her to half-submerged.