American, Filipina wife rescued from distressed yacht in Oriental Mindoro
Oriental Mindoro. INQUIRER FILES
LUCENA CITY — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) rescued an elderly American and his Filipina wife after their yacht ran aground on Monday, near Sugicay Island in Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro.
The PCG-District Southern Tagalog said in a report Tuesday, March 5, that their station in Bulalacao received information around 12:30 p.m. on the distressed sea vessel near the shoreline of the island.
The PCG personnel rushed to the site and saved the boat passengers who were both found in safe condition.
READ: Coast guard rescues 16 fishermen in Oriental Mindoro
The PCG identified the rescued couple as Jon Sidell, 63, and his wife, Belen, 41.
Article continues after this advertisementThe Malaysian-registered catamaran, “Off the Hook” was anchored with an estimated depth of 10-15 meters near the island for the planned kite surfing of the couple.
Article continues after this advertisementHowever, due to strong waves and howling winds, the sea vessel drifted and subsequently ran aground.
READ: PCG rescues 5 fishermen from sunken boat in Mindoro
The report said no traces of oil spills had been observed in the surrounding area.
The PCG assisted the couple in going to a beach resort in Barangay San Roque.
Authorities will check on the condition of the yacht during low tide to inspect any possible damage.
