18 rescued from distressed boat

MANILA, Philippines — A motorized banca carrying 18 people developed engine trouble as it was sailing in the waters off Iloilo over the weekend, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said yesterday.

The boat had to be towed back to the shore when its engine conked out between Carles town and Gigantes Island at around 10:14 a.m. on Saturday.

Three hours later, two rescue teams composed of residents of Carles and Gigantes located the banca and rescued the passengers.

“The rescue team on board two boats located and provided assistance to the passengers who were all in good physical condition,” the PCG report added.

It said the boat was towed to Barangay Lantangan in Carles for repair.