Coast Guard personnel hailed for helping to rescue 60 persons in Cebu boat mishap

CEBU CITY –– Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Michael Lloyd Dino on Monday lauded the off-duty personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) who helped save the lives of over 60 persons when a fast craft sank in the waters off Sibonga town, Cebu last Thursday.

In a press statement, Dino described Seaman First Class Ralph Barajan as a “living hero.”

“You are simply a role model to all our uniformed men that even during our rest days, our service remains and that we will always be available for the people who need our help,” Dino said.

“I commend you for your act of bravery and your malasakit (care) towards your fellow Filipinos. I am looking forward to meeting you to personally congratulate and thank you for your dedicated service,” he added.

Barajan was among the 56 passengers of MV Siargao Princess when the ship sank after water entered the vessel an hour after they left the port in Loon, Bohol.

All 62 passengers and crew members were safe.

Dino also commended the Coast Guard District Central Visayas for their “quick response and in making sure that all will be saved.”

“As always, your agency has shown us that government agencies can be as efficient and effective as yours. Continue your best practices and congratulations on a job well done!”