Two fishermen were rescued after their motorboat, carrying 40 sacks of cement, capsized in waters near Sipaway Island in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental on Oct. 31, the Philippine Coast Guard said.
Personnel from Coast Guard Sub-Station San Carlos immediately responded to the incident, together with the Bantay Dagat, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and police, after receiving a report about the accident.
Initial investigation showed that the motorboat was traveling from San Carlos Fish Port to Sipaway Island when its engine reportedly malfunctioned. The vessel was carrying 40 sacks of cement at the time.
Strong waves and sea currents were also reported in the area when the engine failed, causing the motorboat to capsize.
The two fishermen aboard the vessel were rescued and brought safely to shore using a Bantay Dagat motorboat.
Following the incident, the Coast Guard reminded fishermen and operators of watercraft to ensure their engines and safety equipment are in good condition before traveling.
It also advised them to check weather forecasts and sea conditions before setting out to sea to help prevent similar incidents.
