Fisherman rescued after 5 days adrift off Bajo de Masinloc

A 32-year-old fisherman from Subic, Zambales was rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) after drifting at sea for five days off Bajo de Masinloc, the agency said.

In a statement, the PCG said the rescue was carried out on March 20 during Maritime Patrol and Search and Rescue Operations (SAROPS) in the area.

The fisherman, a resident of Barangay Wawanway, was reported missing after his service boat, Bebelot, operating under FB Gabriel Geruz 6, failed to return.

Information on his last known position was obtained in coordination with BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408).

Upon arrival at the reported location, PCG personnel conducted search operations and eventually spotted the missing boat approximately 78.98 nautical miles west of Capon Grande, Zambales.

At around 4:07 p.m., the fisherman was successfully rescued and immediately given medical assistance onboard. His service boat was also secured and taken aboard the Coast Guard vessel.

BRP Cabra (MRRV-4409) has since departed the area and is en route to Subic, Zambales for the proper turnover of the rescued fisherman.—MCG, GMA Integrated News