PCG: Personnel of Coast Guard Station (CGS) El Nido successfully rescued 22 passengers and two crew onboard motorbanca “Awesam” after it submerged at vicinity water off Hidden Beach, Matinloc Island, El Nido, Palawan last Saturday, 16 June.

A certain Mr. Feliciano Martinito, the boat Captain of motorbanca John Louie, informed CGS El Nido that a motorbanca submerged at the said vicinity area. Upon receipt of the report, personnel of CGS El Nido departed El Nido Pier, El Nido Palawan enroute to the said location and rendered necessary assistance.

Upon arriving thereat, the team spotted the submerge motorbanca “Awesam”. They immediately transferred all passengers and crew of subject motorbanca to other rescue boats who were near transiting at the incident area. Moreover, the said rescue team towed the submerged motorbanca enroute to the shallow part of Matinloc Island.

Investigation revealed that the submerged motorbanca was battered by big waves and strong winds while conducting island hopping activity causing it to submerge. All passengers were allowed to go home after ensuring that they are all in good physical condition.