DOTC-PCG: The Coast Guard is still on alert for two fishermen in Sta. Cruz, Ilocos Sur who went missing since Thursday, January 9.

According to Rowena Carlos, captain of Barangay Villa Garcia, Sta. Cruz, two fishermen went out to sea, 50 miles west of said barangay, on the said date but have failed to return since.

The missing fishermen were identified as Richard Jallorina, 39 years old, and Jun Solinas, 35 years old. Both were seen onboard "Remboy", a yellow and orange motor boat powered with 16HP Briggs and Stratton engine.

Immediately, personnel of Coast Guard Sub Station (CGSS) Candon proceeded to the said barangay to confirm the report and coordinated for a possible search and rescue operation. In addition, other fishermen from their barangay and the relatives of the two missing fishermen joined in the SAR operation in the early morning of January 11 but yielded a negative result.

Due to rough sea condition in the area, the personnel of CGSS Candon were not able to conduct SAR operation. Instead, information dissemination was made to all coastal barangay captains and fisher folks within their area of responsibility to be on the look-out for the missing fishermen and was advised to render necessary assistance and report immediately to the nearest Coast Guard unit if sighted.

Personnel of CGS Salomague intend to conduct search and rescue operation if weather permits.