PCG: A 19-year old fisherman, reported missing since August 21, was found dead by the security personnel of Philippine Ports Authority (PPA)-Lamao in Bataan at around 8:00AM today.

The victim, identified as Benjo Basas, reportedly went on a fishing venture with his 16-year old brother Benjie last August 21 at the vicinity waters of Limay, Bataan. While on their way home around 8:30PM of the same day, their fishing boat F/Bca Maleng was struck by lightning and both fishermen fell overboard.

Though injured, Benjie was able to swim back to shore. His brother went missing since.

Benjo’s lifeless body was found this morning by Arturo Aguilar, security staff of PPA-Lamao at the vicinity of Lamao Anchorage Area in Limay, Bataan.

Upon receipt of said report, CGS Bataan, together with attached Special Operations Unit (SOU) and Marine Environmental Protection Office (MEPO) personnel, boarded a rubber boat and proceeded at the area to verify the sighting.

About 09:15AM, Benjo’s cadaver was recovered and transported to Yambao Funeral Service in Orion, Bataan for proper disposition. It was positively identified by relatives and was later turned-over to PNP-Limay headed by PO1 Juanito Baltazar.