PCG: Elements of Coast Guard Station (CGS) Western Samar together with PCG Auxiliary 1107th Squadron and Maritime Environmental Protection Unit conducted search and rescue (SAR) operation on a distressed motorbanca “Terrence” at vicinity water of Catbalogan City, Samar last Monday, July 23.
CGS Western Samar personnel received information from a certain PPA Catbalogan security guard informing that M/bca “Terrence”, skippered by Mr. Gilbert Lasaka, 34 years old, lost one of its outriggers while enroute to Catbalogan City, Samar from Casab-ahan, Daram.
Inquiry to Lasaka revealed that, while the subject boat is disembarking passengers at the seawall of Catbalogan City, they were battered by unfavorable weather and sea condition which prompted the Master to undock his vessel and look for a safer location to resume the disembarkation of the remaining passengers. However, while on undocking maneuver, the motorbanca unfortunately broke its port (left) outrigger causing the boat to become unstable which prompted the Boat Captain to call for help.
Immediately, the team proceeded to the area and conducted SAR assistance. After arriving at the said area, the team immediately facilitated the transfer of the remaining six passengers of the distressed motorbanca and ferried them at the shoreline of Brgy. Mercedez, Catbalogan City, Samar. The rescued passengers and crew were in good health condition and were turned-over safely to their families and relatives.
CGS Western Samar directed the Boat Captain to file a Marine Protest at the Marina Office and furnish CGS Western Samar copy of same. The Boat Captain was further advised not to venture out at sea during unfavorable condition.