The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) responded to a maritime incident involving a capsized motorbanca off the waters near Pozorrubio, Sta. Ana, Cagayan, on May 16, following rough sea conditions that led to the vessel’s overturning.
In a social media post, the PCG reported that the motorbanca “Triple R” was en route from Bolos Point, Gattaran, to San Vicente, Sta. Ana was carrying 60 sacks of unhusked rice intended for delivery and sale when it encountered strong waves.
“Due to rough sea conditions and strong waves, the motorbanca’s outrigger sustained damage, causing water ingress that eventually led to the capsizing,” the PCG said.
Upon receiving the report, Coast Guard Station Sta. Ana immediately deployed its High-Speed Response Boat (HSRB-018) to conduct search and rescue operations in the area.
The SAR team later located the distressed vessel being assisted and towed by fishing boats M/B Irish, M/B Camile, and M/B Triple J.
By 5:40 p.m. on the same day, all three individuals onboard were safely brought to San Vicente Port, Sta. Ana, and were found to be in good physical condition before being turned over to their families.
The PCG continues to remind seafarers to exercise caution amid unpredictable sea conditions in Northern Luzon waters.
