2 Pangasinan fishermen missing in West Philippine Sea

LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN — Two fishermen from Agno town in Pangasinan province have been reported missing in the West Philippine Sea since February 1, police said on Monday.

Omal Suarez, 27; Jerry Minez, 47; and Imong Minez, 15, who left Barangay (village) Bangan-Oda failed to return after joining other fishermen in separate small boats at about 8 p.m. on Jan. 31 to fish in the West Philippine Sea.

Agno police Chief Sr. Insp. Frank Catalan said three fishermen – Omal Suarez, 27; Jerry Minez, 47; and Imong Minez, 15 – left Barangay (village) Bangan-Oda on the night of January 31 and joined other fishermen in separate small boats to fish in the West Philippine Sea.

However, only Minez managed to return as he was rescued by other fishermen in the waters off Bani town late night of January 31.

Catalan said the boats of Suarez and Minez were tipped over by huge waves as they settled down to fish.

According to the provincial disaster risk reduction and management office, the fishermen set sail despite a gale warning advisory for that day.                   /kga