THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) rescued three fishermen and two Australian nationals after their motorized boat capsized at the water boundary of San Pedro Island, Hinunangan, Southern Leyte and Hibusong Island, Province of Dinagat Island last June 30, 2019.

Seaman 2nd class Eljohn Ga of the Coast Guard District Eastern Visayas identified the victims as Michael Samontina, 35, Jeresio Adansa, 40, Jay-ar Adansa, 19, Graham Hasting, 70, and Jonie Smith, 58.

Based on their initial investigation, around 6 a.m. Sunday, June 30, the victims went on a recreational fishing trip at the vicinity of Hinunangan waters.

Those who were aboard the boat reportedly encountered big waves and squall, a windstorm at sea, that caused their vessel to overturn.

Ga said they received the distress call at around 9:30 a.m. and immediately conducted search and rescue operations.

“At around 1:30 p.m., some fishermen saw them floating at the vicinity waters of Hibusong Island. They were then rescued by our rescuers,” Ga said.

At 4:20 p.m., the victims have returned safely and were given medical treatment, he added. (SunStar Cebu)