Dumanjug: Nine individuals were rescued after the motorboat they were riding capsized in Dumanjug, Cebu despite a no-sail policy enforced by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Negros Oriental.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Marionne Abigail Enopia, the commander of Coast Guard Station Negros Oriental, reported that the motorboat departed on Monday afternoon from the coast of La Libertad without the necessary permission from the agency. Enopia explained that the group waited for an opportunity to set sail without being noticed by the Coast Guard, disregarding the suspension of all sea travel in Negros Oriental due to safety concerns.

The Coast Guard personnel had previously distributed flyers and engaged with fisherfolk and coastal communities in anticipation of Typhoon Tino, known internationally as Kalmaegi, impacting Negros Oriental. Despite these efforts, the group proceeded with their journey, resulting in their motorboat capsizing.

The rescue operation was conducted by Coast Guard personnel in Dumanjug, who successfully retrieved the eight passengers and the motorboat operator from the sea. All individuals involved were declared safe following the incident.

As of Tuesday, the ban on sea travel in Negros Oriental remains in effect, with Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals still active across the province, as confirmed by the local Coast Guard chief.