Twenty-two passengers were rescued after a motorbanca partially submerged in the waters off Sipaway Island in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, the Coast Guard Station Northern Negros Occidental reported on Nov. 7.
Initial investigation showed that strong waves hit the vessel on Nov. 6 and the sudden movement of passengers to one side of the motorbanca caused it to lose balance and partially submerge.
The passengers were rescued by the boat captain and nearby boat operators.
They were brought to safety and received medical assistance from the San Carlos City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office before returning to their respective homes.
The Coast Guard said an investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
It also reminded the public to observe passenger capacity limits, exercise caution during adverse sea conditions, and prioritize safety when traveling by sea. ||
