PCG: PCG continues search for the three (3) missing fishermen onboard distressed motorbanca named “Batuzai” at vicinity waters off between Plaridel and Oroquieta, Misamis Occidental yesterday, July 30.

The incident was reported to Coast Guard Station Iligan by Mrs. Rechel M Pasignajen and Mrs. Kharlie C Embalsado, residents of Barangay Tambacan, Iligan City.

The three (3) missing fishermen were identified as Mr. Arnie Pasignajen, 41, Mr. Russel Embalsado, 29 and Mr. Boboy Durian, 30 respectively.

Accordingly, Mrs. Pasignajen received a call from her husband, one of the three fishermen onboard the said distressed motor banca informing that they have encountered engine trouble and was drifted away by strong current but managed to moor to a fish buoy marker (payao). 

Immediately, Coast Guard Station Iligan informed CGS Ozamiz of the incident and subsequently directed joint personnel of Coast Guard Sub-Station Plaridel and Coast Guard Sub-Station Oroquieta for the conduct of Search and Rescue operations. Likewise, PCG coordinated with nearby fisher folks to be on the lookout for the motor banca “Batuzai” and missing fishermen and to report to the nearest Coast Guard unit if sighted.