The two Filipino fishermen who went missing in Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough or Panatag Shoal, Tuesday have safely returned to the country after they were rescued by the Chinese Coast Guard Thursday.
The Philippine Coast Guard said fishermen Morrey Sierra, 45, and Lloyd Akeiot, 37, arrived at the PCG headquarters in Port Area, Manila at around 10 p.m. Friday.
They went missing after their unnamed motorbanca capsized near the Panatag Shoal. The PCG coordinated with the CCG in the area for a search and rescue operation and issued a notice to mariners.
PCG spokesman Commander Armand Balilo said based on the testimonies of the two fishermen, they drifted helpless at sea for a whole day before a Chinese fishing vessel discovered them.
But due to them not being able to understand one another, the fishing vessel turned them over to the CCG vessel in the Panatag Shoal.
According to Sierra, crew onboard the CCG vessel treated their wounds and even gave them medical assistance, clothing, and food. They stayed in the said vessel until the PCG BRP Tubbataha rendezvoused with them for their turnover Friday afternoon.
Balilo thanked the CCG for its help in rescuing the missing fishermen. He added that coordination between the two Coast Guards is good for the relationship between the Philippines and China.
However, Capt. Roy Echevarria revealed that two other fishermen are still missing near Bajo de Masinloc.
Echevarria said a certain Gil, 59, and Manuel, 52, went missing after their motorbanca capsized last November 26 during tropical storm “Marce.”
He said they have alerted fishermen in the area to be on the lookout and render assistance in case they see the two fishermen.
They will also coordinate with the PCG detachment in Sta. Cruz, Zambales for updates in case they have returned to their families. (Argyll Cyrus B. Geducos)