TACLOBAN CITY — Eleven passengers and crew, including a two-year-old girl, were safely rescued after their motor banca capsized in rough waters off Daram, Samar, on the evening of December 20, 2025, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) authorities reported.
The incident was reported to Coast Guard Station Western Samar (CGSWSR) at around 6:14 p.m. Promptly responding, two search-and-rescue (SAR) teams from the Coast Guard Clearing Out Post in Catbalogan boarded rented motor bancas and proceeded to the area by 6:20 p.m.
At approximately 7:33 p.m., the teams located the capsized vessel between Darahuway Island and Barangay Tinaogan, Daram. All passengers and crew were safely transferred to the rescue boats and transported to Catbalogan City, arriving at the city wharf around 8:20 p.m. There were no reported injuries, and none of the rescued individuals required medical attention.
Preliminary investigation indicated that the motor banca, captained by 37-year-old Elmar Abasula of Barangay Bayog, Daram, had departed the town around 6:00 p.m. en route to Catbalogan City. Strong winds, high waves, and heavy rains caused the vessel to capsize shortly after departure.
The rescued passengers included residents of both Catbalogan City and Daram, with the youngest being a two-year-old child. The SAR teams returned safely to their station by 9:00 p.m. without incident.
The Coast Guard reminded sea travelers and boat operators to closely monitor weather advisories and prioritize safety, particularly during periods of inclement weather, to prevent similar maritime accidents.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
