Mati City, Davao Oriental — September 27, 2025
A night of hard work at sea turned into tragedy when a fisherman lost his life while aboard a fishing boat off the coast of Mati City, prompting a swift and compassionate response from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Davao Oriental.
At around 7:10 p.m. on September 26, the Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Pujada received an urgent call from Mr. Esteban Lanoy Jr., captain of FBCA Meboy. He reported the untimely death of one of his crew members, identified as Mr. Dante Barquin, 53, a resident of Purok Tagawisan, Barangay Badas, Mati City.
Within minutes, the Coast Guard coordinated with key agencies to ensure immediate assistance: the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) Mati for ambulance support, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) Mati for berthing arrangements, and Mr. Barquin’s family for direct communication.
Despite efforts to rush him to the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center (DOPMC), Mr. Barquin was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician. By 8:35 p.m., the Coast Guard officially concluded its operations, with all personnel returning safely to their station.
The Coast Guard Davao Oriental expressed profound condolences to the bereaved family. In a statement, the unit emphasized its continuing commitment to stand by seafarers and their families during times of both safety and sorrow:
“In every voyage at sea, we are here to assist, to extend help, and to ensure that even in the face of sudden death, there is proper care and respect for life. We remain steadfast in our duty to safeguard lives and ensure safety at sea.”
The loss of Mr. Barquin, a seasoned fisherman who relied on the sea to provide for his family, underscores the risks faced daily by those who depend on fishing for livelihood. For communities in Mati and beyond, it is a solemn reminder of the courage and sacrifices of fisherfolk, whose labor sustains many families and households.
Authorities said that an investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause of Mr. Barquin’s death.
As the community mourns, the Coast Guard’s swift action and words of compassion brought comfort to the grieving family, reinforcing the value of solidarity and humanity even amid tragedy.