7 Koreans, 17 Pinoys rescued in sea mishap

A weekend beach outing turned into a nightmare for seven Korean nationals and their 17 Filipino companions after strong waves overturned their motor boats off Jasaan, Misamis Oriental last Saturday afternoon, authorities said.

A tragedy was only averted with the timely arrival of Army and police rescuers who plucked the 24 vacationers from the rough waters.

According to reports reaching Camp Aguinaldo, the vacationers were en route to Agutayan beach in the coastal town of Jasaan when their four boats capsized.

Joint elements of the riverine unit of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division and the Jasaan police promptly responded and rescued them.

"(They) are now safe," Lt. Col. Daniel Lucero, Armed Forces spokesman, said.

Misamis Oriental has many fine beach resorts that draw local and foreign tourists. — Jaime Laude