Four Crew Rescued After Yacht Catches Fire in Romblon Waters

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — Four crew members were rescued after a private yacht caught fire while sailing through the Sibuyan Strait off San Fernando, Romblon, on July 19, authorities said. The Mimaropa police said personnel from the San Fernando Municipal Police Station immediately coordinated with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), and Bantay Dagat volunteers after receiving reports of a burning vessel off Barangay Mabini. The approximately 20-meter-long yacht, MY JAYSON, was traveling from Subic, Zambales, to Cebu for repairs when it caught fire at around 11 a.m., forcing its crew to abandon the vessel. Before government rescue teams arrived, four crew members were rescued by local fishermen who responded to the emergency. They were later turned over to the San Fernando municipal government for assistance. Authorities said responding personnel continued coordinating with the PCG and other concerned agencies to secure the area while waiting for the fire to be fully extinguished and for investigators to determine its cause. “The safe rescue of all four crew members reflects the value of preparedness, rapid coordination, and strong partnerships during emergencies,” said Police Brig. Gen. Christopher R. Dela Cruz, Mimaropa police regional director. He also recognized the efforts of the Philippine Coast Guard, MDRRMO, Bantay Dagat volunteers, and local fishermen, saying their immediate response helped save lives. /mcm