Bislig City, Surigao del Sur — Four individuals were safely rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) after becoming stranded on Hagonoy Island in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, following rough sea conditions that forced their small boat to abandon its voyage on October 14, 2026.
The rescue operation was carried out on October 15 by personnel of Coast Guard Sub-Station Bislig, led by PO3 Theodie L. Espiritu, PCG, under the direct supervision of ENS Billy Joe R. Pino, PCG, acting station commander of Coast Guard Station Surigao del Sur.
According to the Coast Guard, the incident began on the afternoon of October 14 when a small pakura boat carrying one operator and three passengers was traveling from Hagonoy Island toward Barangay Labisma in Bislig City.
While underway, the boat encountered strong waves and seawater began entering the vessel, creating a potentially dangerous situation for everyone on board. Faced with deteriorating sea conditions, the boat operator decided to discontinue the voyage and seek assistance rather than risk continuing the trip.
An initial attempt to reach the stranded individuals was unsuccessful, leaving the four people on the island until the incident was reported to Coast Guard Sub-Station Bislig.
Upon receiving the report, the Coast Guard immediately activated its Deployable Response Group (DRG) to conduct a rescue mission. The response team proceeded to Hagonoy Island aboard a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) to locate and assist the stranded individuals.
Upon reaching the island, the rescuers confirmed that all four individuals were in stable condition. The team then safely transported them to PICOP Pier 2 in Bislig City, where Coast Guard Sub-Station Bislig personnel provided further assistance.
All four individuals were rescued without sustaining injuries. Following the operation, they were brought to the Coast Guard station office for further inquiry.
The incident highlights the risks that small-boat operators and passengers may face when traveling in rough seas, particularly when strong waves and seawater ingress threaten a vessel’s stability. The decision to discontinue the voyage and request assistance helped prevent the situation from escalating into a more serious maritime emergency.
The station commander emphasized the importance of prompt response, community vigilance, proper coordination, and operational preparedness in addressing maritime emergencies and protecting people in distress.
The Philippine Coast Guard reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives at sea and ensuring the safety and security of maritime communities through swift, coordinated, and responsive rescue operations.
Authorities continue to remind the public and boat operators to remain alert to changing sea conditions and prioritize passenger safety when deciding whether to proceed with a voyage.