A fisherman lost at sea for 46 days returned home finally to his family in Infanta, Quezon, on Friday, October 4, 2024.

The operation was conducted by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and various government agencies.

Ruben Dejillo, 49, was reunited safely with his family in Barangay Dinahican, Infanta, after being separated from them for over a month.

Dejillo was discovered by the crew of MV Veronica, a passenger vessel traveling from Itbayat to Basco, Batanes, on September 19, 2024.

He was found severely malnourished and dehydrated after being lost at sea for 46 days.

Dejillo was quickly taken to Batanes General Hospital for urgent medical care. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Batanes Station provided 24/7 monitoring during his recovery to ensure his safety.

Once he was declared fit to travel by his doctors, the Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog organized an aerial transport mission.

On October 4, A PCG plane, BN Islander 4177, flew him from Basco, Batanes to Manila's NAIA Terminal 4. Dejillo arrived in the afternoon, accompanied by local officials and PCG personnel.

From the airport, the Coast Guard ensured Dejillo’s safe journey back to his home in Infanta.

His family greeted him with overwhelming joy and gratitude for his safe return.