In a heartwarming display of humanity and solidarity, a Vietnamese fishing vessel came to the rescue of a Filipino fisherman last May 04.
Allan Maglangit, a boat crew of a company based in Cebu, went overboard on the ship he was on. He was floating for almost 18 hours by the time he was rescued, clinging to a floating Styrofoam buoy.
The Vietnamese fishing vessel spotted Maglangit in distress and swiftly came to his aid.
Demonstrating compassion, the crew of the Vietnamese fishing crew welcomed the stranded Filipino onboard their vessel, ensuring his safety.
Maglangit was then turned over to a Vietnamese Fisheries Surveillance Ship that subsequently reached out to BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS17) that was conducting a Maritime and Sovereignty Patrol in the area at the time.
On Wednesday, May 08, Maglangit arrived at Puerto Princesa City, Palawan after being sealifted by PS17. He was then provided immediate assistance through a thorough medical check-up and debriefing.
On the same day, he was successfully and safely placed under the custody of Crispin Sapit, Jr., the General Manager of Fishland King United Corp., who flew from Cebu to Puerto Princesa City to assist Maglangit back to Cebu, so he can be reunited with his family.
The Philippine Navy said that the rescue of Allan Maglangit highlights “the remarkable act of solidarity between maritime neighbors,” underscoring the importance of cooperation and mutual assistance in the face of challenges at sea.
As the rescued fisherman was reunited with his family and loved ones, the Philippine Navy commended the crew of the Vietnamese fishing vessel for their humanitarian gesture.
“The Western Command, through Naval Forces West, will continue to perform its mandate of protecting the Philippine Sovereignty, territorial integrity and upholding the sovereign rights of the Filipino people, and likewise be ready to provide humanitarian assistance to whoever, and whenever needed,” the Navy added.
