Calatagan, Batangas – A total of 32 individuals, including an infant, were successfully rescued on Thursday, March 19, after their fishing boat, FBCA Prince 2, partially submerged in the waters off Calatagan.
The vessel was reportedly traveling from Balayan to Calatagan for a recreational swimming trip when it encountered strong waves.
The incident occurred around 1:05 p.m. near Barangay Punta. Rough seas battered the boat, nearly causing it to sink, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-District Southern Tagalog.
Upon receiving distress calls, Coast Guard personnel from Balayan and Calatagan immediately initiated a search and rescue operation.
In a coordinated effort, a passing fishing boat initially rescued 14 passengers, bringing them to Barangay Baha in Calatagan before they were transported back to Balayan via a private motorboat.
PCG responders located the remaining 18 passengers approximately 800 meters off Barangay Baha and safely brought them ashore to their station in Balayan. All 32 passengers, comprising one infant, 20 children, and 11 adults, were medically cleared and declared safe. The distressed vessel was eventually towed to port roughly four hours after the incident.
Following the rescue, the PCG station in Balayan issued an Enforcement Inspection Apprehension Report against the operator of FBCA Prince 2. Violations cited include the unauthorized use of the vessel for recreational purposes, departing without Coast Guard clearance, and failing to submit a declaration of safe departure.
Authorities also noted alleged connivance between the boat owner and the skipper. The PCG has since issued a reminder to the public, urging them to only board vessels authorized for passenger transport or recreational trips to prevent similar sea mishaps.
