SEARCH and rescue operations are ongoing for a missing sailor whose ship reportedly sank off Lavezares, Northern Samar on Monday afternoon.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in the province said the ill-fated cargo vessel MV Jherlyn Khatness had 15 crewmen when it went underwater.
Thirteen of the seamen have been rescued while the body of one fatality was retrieved off Biri town. Another crewmember, a 64-year-old man, remained missing.
In a social media post, the PCG said it was coordinating the search and rescue operations with the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD).
“As search operations continue, the community remains hopeful for the safe recovery of the missing crew member and extends heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this tragedy,” the PCG said.
The PCG has also asked for aircraft from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) to help expand the scope of the search and rescue operations.
The OCD said the vessel was on its way to San Jose, Northern Samar when it was struck by huge and strong waves.
