A TOTAL of 23 individuals were rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) after a motor banca and tourist boat collided near the coast of Consuelo, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur.
According to the investigation, the incident was caused by miscommunication in vessel signaling.
The Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Cantilan was conducting a coastal security patrol when the incident occurred, prompting an immediate Search and Rescue (SAR) operation.
Those rescued included 16 passengers, one tourist boat captain, one tourist boat crew member, one motor banca captain, and four motor banca crew members.
One of the tourist boat passengers sustained minor injuries and was taken to the nearest hospital for medical treatment.
The other rescued individuals were reported to be in good condition.
The motor banca operators agreed to a settlement, taking responsibility for the damages to their boats. They also covered the medical expenses of the injured passenger.
CGSS Cantilan reminded both operators to follow proper signaling procedures before and during their voyages to prevent similar incidents in the future.
