TACLOBAN CITY — The Ormoc City government dispatched its rescue boat, named Lucy, Wednesday morning after a passenger on a Cebu-bound fastcraft reported heavy smoke engulfing the vessel, alarming those onboard.

The Ormoc City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) said it received a call from a passenger aboard the Supercat, which had departed from the Port of Ormoc at 9 a.m. and was headed for Cebu City. The alert prompted the city to immediately send its Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) boat, Lucy.

CDRRMO reported that the rescue boat reached the Supercat near Cawit, Camotes, just 19 minutes after being dispatched, demonstrating what the office called exceptional efficiency.

The CDRRMO-WASAR team immediately established communication with the Supercat to provide support and assistance.

At the request of the vessel’s captain, the team aboard Lucy escorted the Supercat safely back to the Port of Ormoc, ensuring secure docking and the safety of all passengers and crew.

“The swift and professional response of the CDRRMO-WASAR team exemplifies outstanding readiness, coordination, and dedication to public safety,” the local government said in a statement. “Their rapid deployment mitigated potential risks, prevented escalation of the incident, and ensured the safe return of the fastcraft.”

The local government also commended the CDRRMO-WASAR team and the capabilities of the rescue boat Lucy for their exemplary service in the operation.