10 fishers stranded off Recto Bank rescued

MANILA, Philippines - A Philippine Navy (PN) patrol ship yesterday rescued the 10 fishermen who were stranded off Recto Bank or Reed Bank in the West Philippine Sea.

The fishermen had been stuck in the area since last week after their fishing boat developed engine trouble, according to Lt. Cherryl Tindog, spokesperson for the Armed Forces' Western Command (AFP-Wescom).

“After 17 hours of searching, the Navy’s patrol phip 35 (PS35), rescued the 10 crewmembers of the F/B 3 Sisters 98 at about 9 a.m.,” Tindog said.

The 10 fishermen who were in good physical condition were expected to arrive this afternoon in Palawan.

They will be taken to the Wescom Hospital in Puerto Princesa City for medical examination.

Tindog identified the fishermen as Jessie Salac, Pedro Cabago, Reynald Cabago, Melvin Aquino, Jherson Recacurva, Benjie Bagao, Arislit Ray El Sy, Erlan Sagang, Danilo Lauan and Jayven Secor, all of Iloilo province.

Last week, Wescom conducted an aerial and maritime search over the Recto Bank following a distress radio call from the fishermen. 

A Nomad plane was dispatched to airdrop food, water, medicines and clothing for the fishermen.

Recto Bank, apart from being a rich fishing ground, is believed to contain vast mineral and oil deposits.  It is under the control of the Philippine government although China is claiming it as part of its maritime domain.