The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) responded to a maritime incident involving seven passengers of a distressed fishing banca that capsized at the vicinity waters off Sungit Point, Candulo Island in Eastern Samar yesterday, 18 March 2021.

Spanish Navy Ship, JS ELCANO informed PCG's BRP Suluan (MRRV-4406) that a distressed fishing banca near its position needed assistance.

Immediately, the PCG dispatched rubber boats to conduct rescue operations. The passengers disembarked at the nearest shoreline in good physical condition.

Upon investigation, the PCG found out that the distressed fishing banca possessed questionable / expired documents.

Currently, the fishing banca remains under the custody of the Coast Guard Sub-Station Guiuan pending presentation of valid and legal documents.