PCG rescues 44 after motor banca sinks off Dinagat Island

Photo courtesy of the Philippine Coast Guard

More than 40 passengers were rescued Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel in Roxas after the motor banca they were riding on sank off Dinagat Island in Surigao Del Norte.

In a statement on Saturday, the PCG said the 38 passengers and six crew members of the motor banca “Danrey Express” were rescued by a search and rescue team of the PCG on Friday, June 8.

All of the passengers on board the motor banca were all safe and accounted for, the PCG said.

According to an investigation by the PCG, the motor banca sank after it was hit by floating debris.

“[The] motorbanca was accidentally struck by floating debris of wood which caused a hole at her starboard side (right hand side) bow and subsequently submerged,” the PCG said.

“All of the passengers and crew of Mbca Danrev Express were successfully rescued and were brought to Barangay Poblacion Rizal, while others were brought to Barangay Roxas, and were sent home to their respective families in good physical condition,” the PCG added.    /muf