23 people rescued after two boats collided in Surigao del Sur

At least 23 people were rescued after a tourist boat and a motor banca collided off Consuelo, Cantilan, Surigao del Sur.

The 23 individuals rescued include 16 passengers, the tourist boat captain, a tourist boat crew member, the captain of the motor banca, and four motor banca crew members.

A passenger of the tourist boat also sustained a minor injury and was brought to the nearest hospital for treatment.

According to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the collision was caused by miscommunication on vessel signaling.

Personnel of the Coast Guard Sub-Station Cantilan who were conducting a coastal security patrol at that time immediately conducted a search and rescue operation.

PCG said the operators of both vessels reportedly reached an agreement and covered the medical expenses of the injured passenger.

CGSS reminded both operators to observe precautionary measure before and during voyages to prevent similar incidents in the future. —GMA Regional TV