PCG: Search and Rescue (SAR) team of Coast Guard Station (CGS) Coron successfully rescued a foreign national after accidentally falling overboard on a speedboat at the vicinity waters of Coron Anchorage Area, Coron, Palawan last May 19.

Reports received from Mr Joshua Stickland, a 30 year-old British national, that his companion who was identified as Mr Veera Ponkaew, a 28 year-old Thailand national fell overboard seeking for assistance.

Immediately, SAR team of CGS Coron conducted search and rescue operations at the said vicinity and sighted the victim approximately 300 meters South of Coron Port swimming towards its direction. The team immediately rescued Ponkaew and rendered necessary assistance. The victim was safely brought to Lualhati Wharf, Poblacion 3, Coron, Palawan where Mr Stickland was waiting.

Investigation revealed that the victim, together with Stickland, went on a bar hopping at the La Sirenetta Resto Bar on the night of May 18. On the same date, the two decided to return on their yacht which was anchored at Coron Bay Anchorage Area. While underway, Ponkaew suddenly lost balance due to drunkenness and fell overboard.

Mr Ponkaew is now in good physical condition. The two nationals were turned-over to Ms Sarah Clutterbuck, Mr Stickland’s fiancé.