Big waves hindered the search and rescue operation of the Philippine Coast Guard for the two fishermen, who went missing in Sipalay City on Thursday afternoon, Feb. 18.
PCG Negros Occidental commander Ludovico Librilla identified the two as Alex Alegao and Rico Orquia, both residents of Barangay 5.
Initial report of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office showed that the two went fishing on Wednesday afternoon.
The following morning, they contacted their families to inform them that their fishing boat encountered engine trouble.
At around 1 p.m. on Thursday, the CDRRMO was able to communicate with the fishermen, who were situated about five nautical miles from Sipalay proper, asking for rescue.
The city disaster response team coordinated with the Coast Guard for the rescue operation, but due to big waves they were not able to proceed.
Librilla said that since the area is an open sea facing Mindanao, they notified the Cagayancillo and Zamboanga Coast Guard for possible rescue operation, if ever they will spot the two fishermen from Negros. — NND
