Man Rescued After Jumping Off Vessel in San Carlos

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) rescued a 28-year-old man who jumped off a roll-on, roll-off (RoRo) vessel near the port of San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, on Wednesday afternoon.

Coast Guard Ensign John Hoffer Olis, public information officer of PCG-Northern Negros Occidental, said the victim, whose name was withheld, was struggling with depression due to personal problems.

Olis said the victim had a misunderstanding with his girlfriend and was also fired from his job in Cebu.

Passengers did not notice any unusual behavior from the victim during the trip from Cebu.

A passenger who saw the victim jump overboard around 4:30 p.m. immediately reported the incident to the crew.

Fortunately, two Coast Guard personnel assigned to Antique were on board and quickly responded.

PO1st Alexis Cabrejas jumped off the vessel to rescue the victim, assisted by PO1st Rene Cabañera.

The rescue took about 25 minutes, Olis said.

Medical assistance was provided to the victim before he was allowed to return home to Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.