CEBU, Philippines - The Talisay City council during its regular session yesterday commended seven local fishermen for helping rescue passengers and the crew of MV Island Fast Craft I which caught fire and later on sank in Bohol last August 21.
"Their courageous and selfless acts, setting aside their trade, and aided the endangered parties, are both heroic laudable traits greatly needed during this time of crisis," read the proposed resolution which was approved unanimously by the council yesterday.
The city council headed by Vice Mayor Alan Bucao also handed out personally to Jovan Maat, Jimmy Pampelon, Celestino Villarias, Herne Maat, Edgardo Libres, Richard Mabala, and Jonas Amancia copies of the resolution.
The sight of the fishermen must have floored the councilors.
Bucao, in an interview with the media, said Councilor Bernard Odilao, author of the resolution, is now looking for ways to help the "heroes," who came in tattered clothes and slippers yesterday, in contrast to the councilors' expensive leather shoes, watches, and suits popularly known as "americana."
According to the newly approved resolution, these fishermen were fishing some 14 kilometers from the shoreline of the city when they saw the incident "prompting them to act accordingly."
"It is just proper to recognize their deeds of heroism in order to inculcate this vigilant behavior into the minds of the general populace, so that it may encourage us to be non-pathetic especially in times of great need," continued the resolution.
The motion was also seconded by opposition Councilor Val Ylanan. - THE FREEMAN