(Eagle News) — More than 20 people were rescued from a sinking boat off Palawan, the military said on Friday, Aug. 2.
In a statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Command said the 28 people were rescued from the fishing boat Athan Uno, which had begun sinking 35 miles northeast of El Nido and two miles of an Alcon Production platform.
The boat personnel had managed to send a distress call, prompting the JTF Malampaya to deploy Navy vessel BRP Nestor Reinoso (PC 380).
Upon arrival, the military said Athan Uno was half-submerged and was being towed by another motor banca.
The fishing boat’s passengers were transferred to the Navy vessel, and have been turned over to the El Nido Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
The Athan Uno captain said they were on their way to the West Philippine Sea when they were struck by strong waves.