PCG launches search, rescue ops for father who went missing enroute to Negros

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Tuesday said it is conducting a search and rescue (SAR) operation following reports that a 53-year-old man went missing while on a ferry bound for Caticlan, Albay.

In a statement, the PCG said the passenger has been missing since Saturday.

“The PCG activated its SAR vessels and aerial assets, anchored on the commitment to protecting lives at sea, in line with the Bagong Pilipinas campaign,” it said.

According to GMA Public Affairs, Danilo Villaluz reportedly went missing while traveling from Batangas to Negros Island via a Batangas–Caticlan ferry on December 13.

His daughter Diana said Danilo was on his way to Negros Island to visit his child, who was confined in a hospital there.

Danilo was able to contact his family during the trip and even sent a selfie before telling them that he would rest and sleep for while.

The following day, his family no longer received any text messages or calls from him.

A man who identified himself as a staff member of the ferry reportedly answered Danilo’s phone. Danilo’s backpack, sling bag, shoes, identification cards, cash, and cellphone were found aboard the ferry.

Anyone with information on Danilo’s whereabouts may contact the following numbers:

• Rosdan Jay Villaluz: 0947-636-1564
• Diana Rose Villaluz: 0963-103-9559
• Dexter Villaluz: 0939-835-3473

— JMA, GMA Integrated News