Student missing after boat collision in Iloilo

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A student-fisherman went missing after his motor banca capsized following a collision early in the morning on September 8 in Ajuy, Iloilo.

As of press time, search and rescue operations are ongoing for Remie Besonia, 23, a resident of Barangay Nasidman, Ajuy.

His older brother, 28-year-old Ralf Barry Besonia, sustained a minor injury.

According to reports, the brothers’ motor banca collided with another vessel skippered by Markhin Llego, 25, also of Nasidman village.

Markhin was with three crew members identified as Romel Llego, 36; Jan Mike Villaester, 19; and Roland Vargas, 57. All are residents of Barangay Nasidman, Ajuy.

Staff Sergeant Noel Demalinao, an Ajuy police investigator, said the two boat captains, Markhin and Ralf Barry, claimed they did not see the other motor banca as they were sailing about 50 meters from the Nasidman shoreline.

Remie was reportedly thrown out of the boat, while Ralf Barry sustained an injury to the side of his right eye. He was rushed to Gov. Niel D. Tupas District Hospital in Barotac Viejo town.

Demalinao said an investigation is ongoing to determine if anyone should be held liable for the incident.