Marines rescue 3 lost fishermen in WPS

A detachment of Philippine Marines rescued three fishermen who were stranded in the open waters of the West Philippine Sea on Sunday. 

In a statement, personnel of Marine Battalion Landing Team-9 (MBLT-9) stationed in the WPS rescued and provided assistance to the fishermen who were floating in their bancas (wooden canoe) for nearly two days at around 8:30 a.m.  

The fishermen were identified as Romeo H. Carta, 50; Rojin A. Santillan, 28; and Axel C. Gonzaga, 30, all residents of Barangay San Piro, Malayan, Batangas.

It was reported that the fishermen were separated from their mother boat due to rough sea conditions. 

After the fishermen were found, they were provided food, water, and medical assistance.

The marines coordinated with the Philippine Navy, who then contacted the fishermen’s mother boat for retrieval. 

“This incident highlights the unwavering commitment of the Philippine Marine Corps to safeguarding lives and upholding maritime security in the West Philippine Sea, ensuring the protection of both territorial waters and Filipino fisherfolks,” the Philippine Marine Corps said in a statement to the media. — RF, GMA Integrated News