Search, rescue ongoing for 12 people on capsized boat in Southern Leyte

TACLOBAN CITY—Search and rescue operations are now ongoing for 12 people aboard a pump boat that capsized in waters off the towns of Padre Burgos and Limasawa, Southern Leyte province on Monday (July 15).

Sgt. Jerf Alvarez, of the Philippine Coast Guard station in Maasin City, said teams from the Limasawa municipal government, police and the Coast Guard were now in the area.

An unidentified priest was said to be among the boat passengers.

Reports said the boat was heading to Limasawa from Padre Burgos when strong waves and rain whipped up by Tropical Depression Falcon battered the vessel.

“It capsized due to strong waves and rains. It was just a small boat,” Alvarez said. He said there were reports of a casualty./TSB