PCG: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Isabel, Leyte have assisted the 25 stranded passengers of a distressed motor boat which left Camotes Island without clearance from the PCG. 

Motor banca "Papa Jaime 3" reportedly incurred engine trouble while crossing from Cebu to Palompon, Leyte last Tuesday, April 7.

Its four crew members attempted to repair the smoking engine but failed. 

The incident was reported by one of the passengers' relative to the Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Isabela around 10:30 am.

The Coast Guard personnel immediately conducted a search and rescue operation onboard AB-116 and found the distressed boat nine nautical miles southwest off Isabel Pier. Upon checking on the condition of the passengers, the SAR team towed the boat to Isabel Pier where all passengers disembarked in good physical condition. 

Investigation revealed that Papa Jaime 3 deviated from its route and left the port without the necessary permit to navigate. 

The personnel of CGSS Isabel issued an Enforcement Inspection Apprehension Report (EIAR) to the boat in violation of PCG Memorandum Circular 07-12 for leaving the port without clearance from the PCG. It was also issued with a MARINA violation receipt for deviating from its authorized route and navigating without the necessary permit to navigate.