By Nimfa Estrellado FBCA Zshan (Photo from Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog) INFANTA, Quezon - A desperate search and rescue operat...
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| FBCA Zshan (Photo from Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog) |
INFANTA, Quezon - A desperate search and rescue operation is underway in Quezon province as authorities race against time to locate two missing fishing boats carrying a total of 19 crew members who vanished amidst the onslaught of Typhoon Enteng. The once picturesque province has been left reeling from the typhoon's wrath, with widespread devastation hindering search efforts and painting a grim picture for the missing fishers.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) station in Infanta town, northern Quezon, received a report on Wednesday from Noreen Soronel, owner of FBCA Zshan, stating she had lost contact with the fishing vessel on Tuesday, September 3.
Quezon province has been severely impacted by Typhoon Enteng, with entire villages submerged in floodwaters, landslides blocking crucial roads, and communication lines severed. The coastal areas, where many fishing communities reside, have borne the brunt of the storm's fury. Storm surges and torrential rains have destroyed homes and livelihoods, leaving residents displaced and desperate.
The first boat, FBCA Zshan, was reported missing on Wednesday after its owner lost contact with the vessel on Tuesday. The boat, carrying a skipper and 15 passengers, had left Infanta for a month-long fishing expedition in the Pacific Ocean on August 18. The last communication with the boat was on Monday when the owner advised the skipper to seek shelter from the storm.
Adding to the growing concern, another fishing boat, RODA 1, with four fishermen on board, was also reported missing on Thursday. The boat had left Perez Island town on August 28 for a fishing venture in the Polillo island fishing ground and has not returned since.
The PCG, along with the Philippine Air Force, Philippine National Police, and local fishing boats, are facing immense challenges in their search and rescue operations. Navigating through debris-filled waters, contending with strong currents and limited visibility, they are tirelessly combing the affected areas in hopes of finding any sign of the missing fishers.
The public, especially those in coastal communities, are urged to report any sightings or relevant information that may help locate the missing boats. Any assistance from individuals with knowledge of the area or experience in maritime search and rescue operations would also be greatly appreciated to aid in the efforts to locate the missing fishers.
The families of the missing fishers are enduring agonizing uncertainty as the search continues amidst the typhoon's devastating aftermath. Their hopes are fading with each passing hour, compounded by the widespread destruction that serves as a constant reminder of the storm's power. This incident has cast a dark shadow over the province, highlighting the vulnerability of those who depend on the sea for their livelihood.
The authorities are appealing for everyone's cooperation and prayers as they race against time to find the missing fishers and bring them home safely. The extent of Typhoon Enteng's devastation in Quezon serves as a somber backdrop to this ongoing tragedy, underscoring the urgent need for continued search and rescue efforts and highlighting the resilience of a community grappling with immense loss.
Recently, a fisherman was rescued in Quezon Province after being reported missing on September 1. The 35-year-old fisherman went missing during a fishing trip and was later found clinging to a buoy after strong waves damaged his boat. He was successfully rescued with the assistance of fellow fishermen and the Philippine Coast Guard.
In response, the Coast Guard Station Southern Quezon swiftly coordinated with the Coast Guard Maritime Patrol Alabat. The Search and Rescue Team of CGMP Alabat, in collaboration with the Philippine National Police and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Perez, promptly initiated search operations.
The PCG continues to urge shoreline communities to remain vigilant and avoid fishing during typhoons, emphasizing safety and adherence to weather advisories. They also remind fishermen to always have proper safety equipment on board.
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