Navy rescues passengers of capsized boat in Cebu

Members of the Philippine Navy in Cebu rescues passengers of a capsized motorized boat off the coasts of Cebu Friday evening. Photo courtesy of the Philippine Navy

MANILA, Philippines—Quick to respond to the situation, the Philippine Navy has rescued passengers of a capsized boat off the coast of Cebu on Friday, a Navy official said.

Lieutenant Commander Marineth Domingo, Philippine Navy Public Affairs Office Chief, said members of the Naval Forces Central Command sent out two rubber boats at 3:20 p.m. and rescued 31 passengers of the motorized passenger boat MV Cruiser Sam and Shorty.

Said boat sailed off from Pasil Wharf, Cebu City en route Clarin, Bohol, and capsized at the vicinity of Lauis Ledge, Talisay City, Cebu.

Domingo added the Navy also sent out vessels VU 471 and BRP Subanon, which responded to the search and rescue area.

First rescued were 17 passengers and was brought to Captain Veloso Pier, Naval Forces Central.

“They were immediately given food and warm clothing,” Domingo said.

Of the 31 passengers rescued, 14 were saved at 8 p.m. Friday.

Domingo said the search-and-rescue operations are still going on.

“Naval Forces Central Command had their medical team and land transportation on standby at Capt. Veloso Pier for possible evacuation of the rescued individuals,” Domingo said.

Rescued passengers said an estimated 50 people were on board when the boat capsized.

Domingo said the number of missing personalities has not been identified yet as no official count was available.

“The Navy will continue with the conduct of search-and-rescue operations and ensure that all efforts are exhausted to bring all the passengers onboard to safety,” Domingo said.

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