MATI CITY, Davao Oriental — A 40-year-old fisherman who was reported missing after failing to return from a fishing venture off Barangay Dahican in Mati City has been found alive and rescued after more than three days, authorities said Wednesday.
The fisherman, identified in the Coast Guard advisory as Jonie Patchico, a resident of Magsaysay 17-B, Mati City, was reported missing after he went out to sea aboard the fishing boat marked “FB-MISON 4” on August 23.
According to the initial report, Patchico was with fellow fishermen when his companions discovered upon waking at around 11 p.m. on August 23 that he was no longer aboard the vessel.
His failure to return prompted maritime authorities to issue Notice to All Mariners No. 006-2026 on August 24, warning vessels, fisherfolk and other maritime stakeholders operating in and around Mati City to remain vigilant and assist if the missing fisherman was sighted.
The search continued until Wednesday morning, August 26, when Patchico was finally spotted in the vicinity of Barangay Mayo, Mati City, at around 5 a.m.
He was reportedly found by Rohilyo Bariga, who immediately provided assistance and helped ensure the fisherman’s safety.
Personnel of the Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Dahican, together with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) of Mati, promptly responded after receiving the report.
The rescuers assisted in securing Patchico and transported him to the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center (DOPMC) for medical evaluation, treatment and observation.
The successful rescue ended a more than three-day search for the fisherman, who had remained unaccounted for since he was discovered missing aboard the fishing vessel on August 23.
The Philippine Coast Guard had earlier called on all vessels and fishing communities operating near Mati City to remain alert and immediately report any possible sighting or information concerning Patchico’s whereabouts.
The Coast Guard also reminded maritime stakeholders of the importance of promptly reporting persons missing at sea, as early coordination and assistance from other vessels and coastal communities can be crucial during maritime emergencies.
With Patchico now safely recovered, the Coast Guard Station Davao Oriental reiterated its commitment to responding to maritime emergencies and protecting lives at sea through coordinated search, rescue and emergency response operations.
Authorities have not provided further details regarding the circumstances that led to Patchico becoming separated from the fishing vessel. His condition following the rescue was to be assessed by medical personnel at DOPMC.