GASAN, MARINDUQUE – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) successfully rescued 50 passengers on Friday after their vessel suffered engine failure in the waters off Marinduque.
The distressed vessel, identified as MBCA Emarsan, was drifting approximately 5.5 nautical miles off Barangay Bachao Ibaba when the incident occurred around noon on January 9. In addition to the passengers, the craft was transporting a cargo of 250 sacks of rice.
Authorities at the Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Gasan launched a rescue operation immediately after receiving a distress call from the vessel’s purser. The motorbanca was reportedly en route to Gasan Pier when it lost propulsion, leaving it at the mercy of the sea.
The PCG deployed a specialized rescue team, supported by an auxiliary motorbanca, to intercept the drifting vessel. After establishing a tow line, the rescue teams successfully escorted the MBCA Emarsan back to the safety of Gasan Port.
According to the boat’s captain, the mechanical failure was traced to a burnt clutch lining, which rendered the engine inoperable.
“All passengers were accounted for and confirmed to be in good condition upon arrival at the port,” the PCG stated in a report. The vessel’s cargo also remained intact throughout the ordeal.
The MBCA Emarsan remains docked at Gasan Port, where it is undergoing mechanical repairs. Authorities have not yet cleared the vessel to resume its scheduled operations.