Eight people were rescued while one died after their motorboat capsized in waters off Liwagao Island in Caluya, Antique, on Sunday.

According to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) San Jose led the search and rescue (SAR) operation for the passengers of MB San Agustin IV, which was en route to Barangay Caminawit, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. The vessel departed Semirara Port, Antique, on 5 September.

The motorboat failed to reach its expected destination, and communication with its crew could not be established. The vessel owner then notified the PCG.

CGSS San Jose immediately mobilized its SAR team and began searching the vicinity waters of San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. The PCG also coordinated with CGSS Semirara for information on the vessel and issued safety advisories to nearby maritime traffic.

Despite challenging weather and sea conditions, rescuers located the MB San Agustin IV capsized off Barangay Sibulo, Liwagao Island, Caluya, Antique, at about 6:30 a.m. on 6 September. Several individuals were found clinging to the vessel’s keel.

The PCG immediately launched rescue operations and brought the survivors to Pinagpala Port in Barangay Semirara, Caluya, for medical evaluation and further assistance, in coordination with CGSS Semirara and the Semirara Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

One passenger was later confirmed dead.

Meanwhile, CGSS Semirara personnel aboard MTUG Jun Yeu began towing the capsized motorboat toward Semirara Island.

The PCG reminded maritime stakeholders to exercise utmost caution, closely monitor weather conditions, and ensure that vessels are properly equipped and prepared before undertaking voyages.

Through its Intensified Community Assistance, Awareness, Response and Enforcement program, the PCG said it remains committed to safeguarding lives at sea through rapid response, sustained search and rescue operations, inter-agency coordination and continuous monitoring of maritime incidents, particularly during adverse weather conditions.