The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) responded to a maritime incident involving 33 passengers and 15 crewmembers of a distressed motorbanca that encountered engine trouble at the vicinity waters off Sabtang Island, Batanes yesterday, 03 February 2021.

According to the captain, the propeller of MB STA INES 2 malfunctioned while underway from Ivana Port to Sabtang Port.

Immediately, Seaman Second Class (SN2) Jayson Orendez of the PCG, who happened to be one of the passengers of the distressed motorbanca, contacted Coast Guard Sub-Station Sabtang for rescue assistance.

SN2 Orendez also ensured all passengers wore lifejackets and remained calm while waiting for the search and rescue (SAR) team.

The Coast Guard Sub-Station Sabtang coordinated with a private motorbanca for assistance in towing MB STA INES 2 to the Sabtang Port where all passengers and crewmembers arrived in good physical condition.