12 fishermen drifting in Palawan waters rescued

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has rescued 12 fishermen in the waters of El Nido, Palawan after their fishing boat suffered mechanical problems and started drifting away amid rough sea conditions.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, the PCG said it dispatched Friday the BRP Melchora Aquino to conduct a rescue operation upon receiving a distress call.

The PCG vessel was able to locate the fishermen's boat, the FB BART-2, within a few hours of its deployment. The fishing boat, which experienced engine problems on Thursday, was found off Cabuli Island in El Nido.

"All crew members of the said fishing boat were found safe and in stable condition," the PCG said.

The PCG added, "The PCG provided them with necessary assistance, including medical evaluations, supplies, and towed their distressed vessel to safety."

Following the incident, the PCG renewed its call for seafarers to prioritize safety by ensuring the seaworthiness of their vessels. Communication equipment should be available, the PCG said, before setting sail. — VDV, GMA Integrated News