The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) demonstrated its commitment to maritime safety and swift action in response to a distress call from the fishing vessel F/B GREY ERRON, which encountered engine trouble approximately 70 nautical miles west of Botolan, Zambales.
On July 13, 2025, at 12:10 PM, BRP TERESA MAGBANUA (MRRV-9701) received an urgent report regarding the F/B GREY ERRON, which had become dead in the water due to clutch disk transmission failure. The vessel, with eight crew members onboard, was in distress, and one crew member was suffering from a swollen leg due to arthritis.
Upon receiving the distress signal, MRRV-9701 immediately set course for the F/B GREY ERRON, navigating approximately 89 nautical miles toward the vessel’s last known position. By 7:00 PM that same day, MRRV-9701 arrived on the scene, demonstrating the PCG’s unwavering dedication to maritime safety.
The following morning, at 6:00 AM, a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) was deployed to provide immediate support. The RHIB crew delivered essential drinking water and medical assistance to the crew member in need, who had severe swelling in both legs. Necessary medications were administered, and the patient was safely evacuated along with two other crew members for further medical evaluation.
Additionally, the engineering crew of MRRV-9701 conducted diagnostics on the F/B GREY ERRON, discovering that the main engine was completely inoperable. Despite the challenges, the PCG personnel worked tirelessly to recharge the vessel’s main engine battery, ensuring every possible effort was made to stabilize the situation.
By July 15, at 8:00 AM, a service boat arrived to transport the crew, including the patient, back to their home vessel. The crew of F/B GREY ERRON expressed immense gratitude for the assistance provided, highlighting the importance of the PCG’s role in ensuring the safety and welfare of those at sea.
The Philippine Coast Guard remains unwavering in its mission to safeguard lives and secure property across the seas. This incident serves as a striking testament to the steadfast dedication of PCG leadership in ensuring the safety and security of Filipino fishermen operating in the West Philippine Sea.
