Ang Pahayagan

PALAUIG, Zambales — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) successfully provided assistance to a distressed fishing boat in the waters off Palauig Point, Zambales, ensuring the safety of its nine crew members.

According to the PCG, its vessel BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409) responded to the fishing boat Maria Luisa after receiving information about its condition at sea on June 1.

BRP Cabra arrived at the vessel’s location at around 7:02 p.m. and immediately coordinated with the crew. A skiff boat was deployed to transport Coast Guard personnel onboard to conduct an inspection and assess the vessel’s condition.

During the inspection, the PCG team discovered that the boat’s propeller shaft bushing was severely worn, resulting in significant water ingress through the shaft area. As an immediate safety measure, the crew applied sealant to temporarily contain the leak and prevent further flooding.

Following the assessment, Maria Luisa was declared unserviceable at sea and required afloat repairs and towing assistance to ensure the safety of both the vessel and its crew.

On June 3 at about 10:21 a.m., the fishing boat and its nine crew members safely arrived at Silanguin Island, Zambales, where they were turned over to Coast Guard Station Zambales for further assistance and appropriate disposition.

The PCG said it remains committed to safeguarding lives at sea through timely maritime response operations and ensuring the safety of mariners in Philippine waters.