A FISHERMAN died while four others were rescued by Philippine Navy personnel off Zamboanga City where the victims’ boat capsized on Monday afternoon.
The military’s Western Mindanao Command based in Zamboanga City identified the fatality as boat master Enricky Brocka, 55.
Rescued were Erickson Brock, 19, Richard Brocka 30; Oroy Gay, 27; and George Alvarasen, 36. Erickson and Richard are sons of Brocka.
Personnel of a Navy attack boat on the way to a Navy facility in the city spotted the four fishermen seeking help on top of their capsized boat, MB Elsa 3, off San Mateo Point in Barangay Sinunuc at around 5 p.m.
After coming to the rescue of the four, the Navy men recovered Enricky, who was unconscious, under the banca. He was brought to the Zamboanga City Medical Center but was declared dead upon arrival.
The four survivors were brought to the Camp Navarro General Hospital for medical attention and debriefing.
“We provided the necessary assistance to the victims of the sea mishap and communicated with their respective families,” said Rear Admiral Erick Kagaoan, commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao.
Wesmincom chief Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan extended his “deepest sympathy” to the family of the boat master who died.
“Rest assured that we will provide all sorts of assistance to the victims of this very unfortunate incident,” said Vinluan.