Fifty-one passengers were rescued after a motorbanca nearly sank between Caubian and Caw-oy, Olango Island, around 10 a.m. today.
Authorities identified the boat as MBCA Sto. Niño, which was sailing towards Brgy. Caw-oy when it was battered by strong waves and winds. The impact reportedly caused a hole in the vessel, allowing water to flood in.
Rescue teams from Cebu City Maritime Police Station, Lapu-Lapu City Police Station 1, Lapu-Lapu City Rescue, Philippine Coast Guard Sub-Station Lapu-Lapu, and Bureau of Fire Protection Lapu-Lapu City Rescuer responded to the scene. They conducted a joint search and rescue operation to save the passengers before the boat could fully submerge.
The passengers ranged from 2 to 70 years old, including seven children—five girls and two boys. A 70-year-old man was also among those rescued.
Authorities have yet to release further details about the cause of the incident or whether the boat met maritime safety standards.
