Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 3) — All of the nearly 70 passengers of the boat that sank in the waters of Quezon on Thursday have been rescued, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
Citing information it received, the PCG said the motorbanca Jovelle Express 3 was carrying 60 passengers and seven crew members – along with 15 styrofoam boxes of assorted fish – when the incident happened off Barangay Macnit in Polillo.
It added that the boat was on its way from Patnanungan to the town of Real when it hit a hard object and began taking in water.
The PCG also said adequate life vests were provided to the passengers prior to leaving the port.
The coast guard substation in Patnanungan was notified of the incident at around 1 p.m. and authorities immediately provided rescue assistance.
“All passengers were brought to the barangay hall of Barangay Macnit, Polillo as of the moment, properly accounted (for) and were assessed in good physical condition,” it said.
In a social media post, Patnanungan Mayor Claire Larita expressed gratitude to all those who helped save the distressed individuals, noting that these include local fishermen.
The incident came exactly a week after the motorbanca Aya Express sank off Binangonan, Rizal on July 27. The tragedy killed 27 passengers, while 41 others survived.
