Munqidz Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

On October 7, 2020, a heroic rescue unfolded off the coast of Bajo de Masinloc in Zambales province, where the freighter 'Kumano Maru' came to the aid of 15 Filipino fishermen from the fishing vessel 'Aqua Princess'. The fishermen, who had embarked on their fishing expedition on October 2, found themselves in peril after their boat capsized in turbulent waters approximately 75 nautical miles west of Agno, Pangasinan. The 'Aqua Princess', which had 17 crew members aboard, faced massive waves that ultimately led to its capsizing at midnight on the fateful day. Captain Eddie Ariño instructed two crew members, Pedro Manalo Jr., 39, and Jerby Regala, 26, both of whom sustained only minor injuries, to take their service boat to the nearest Coast Guard station for assistance. The remaining crew clung to the outrigger of the overturned vessel while awaiting help. After reaching Barangay Cato in Infanta town on the morning of October 11, Manalo Jr. and Regala reported the accident to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) sub-station. The Northern Luzon district Coast Guard, along with personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and local rescue teams, swiftly launched a Search and Rescue (SAR) operation. They also issued a Notice to Mariners, urging all vessels transiting the area to be vigilant and assist if the fishermen were spotted. The situation took a positive turn around 12:30 p.m. when the 'Kumano Maru' confirmed they had located the crew of the 'Aqua Princess'. The fishermen were subsequently escorted to a designated rendezvous point at Quinawan in Bagac, Bataan, where they were turned over to the PCG's patrol vessel BRP 'Malapascua (MRRV-4403)' at 7 p.m. They were then safely transported to Cunanan Wharf in Manila, marking a successful conclusion to this dangerous incident at sea.