A pumpboat sailing the waters off the Municipality of Argao in southern Cebu caught fire. 

The boat was bound for Cabilao Island in Loon town, Province of Bohol from Barangay Langtad in Argao town.

The owner and boat skipper identified as Dionesio Parilla, 61 years old, sustained minor burns on the face, right foot, and hands.

The incident happened past 1 p.m. on January 7, 2025.

It was learned that Parilla bought “bahalina” in Argao. Bahalina is a traditional Filipino wine made from fermented coconut or nipa palm sap.

Upon his return home to Loon town, carrying at least 20 containers of “bahalina,” he refilled the pumpboat with gasoline, but it kindled and set the vessel on fire.

He jumped quickly into the sea.

Residents of Langtad, Argao led by Barangay Chairman Ariel Saragena came immediately to his rescue.