LUCENA CITY — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has urged boat owners and operators in Quezon to comply with maritime safety regulations and secure the necessary permits and registration documents before sailing, following the capsizing of two unregistered vessels on Nov. 3 and 4. The PCG Northern Quezon Station issued the reminder on Thursday, Nov. 5, emphasizing the importance of observing maritime safety guidelines and ensuring vessels are properly documented and seaworthy to prevent accidents at sea. In the first incident, two fishermen, a father and son, were rescued by fellow fishermen after their boat capsized off Panukulan on Nov. 3. The vessel’s right outrigger broke after it was battered by strong waves while the two were returning from a fishing trip. The PCG later discovered that the fishing boat, FBCA Angela, was not registered with the Municipal Agriculture Office or under the Safety, Security and Environmental Numbering (SSEN) System. Authorities advised its owner to register the vessel and ensure its engine and outriggers were in good condition before sailing. In a separate incident on Nov. 4, cargo boat MB AC capsized off Balesin Island in Polillo, Quezon, while traveling from Jomalig to Atimonan without the required Coast Guard clearance.
The vessel’s seven crew members were rescued after spending approximately 10 hours at sea. The PCG said the captain and owner admitted proceeding without the necessary clearance and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) documents. Authorities subsequently issued notices of violation against the owner for departing without Coast Guard clearance and failing to submit a Master’s Declaration of Safe Departure. MB AC remains impounded in Jomalig pending its registration with MARINA Region IV and payment of the corresponding fines.
