PCG rescues 9 seafarers from stricken tugboat off Zambales

Nine crew members of a tugboat were rescued off Botolan, Zambales after it was intentionally run aground when a breach in its hull flooded the engine room last August 14.

According to a social media update by GMA News stringer Joanna Aglibot, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said all crew members were safely brought to shore.

Botolan Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) identified the tugboat as the SL SUAI 1.

The PCG continues to monitor the vessel while salvage operations are underway.

Although no gale warning is currently in effect, the Botolan MDRRMO advises the public—particularly coastal communities—to avoid all water activities due to inclement weather and to stay updated on weather forecasts. —Lyjah Tiffany Bonzo/RF, GMA News