Five fishermen were rescued after their fishing boat was allegedly hit by a Chinese vessel in the waters near Paluan, Occidental Mindoro, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Thursday, Dec. 7.

In a statement, PCG said it assisted in rescuing five fishermen following an alleged allision between their boat, FBCA RUEL J, and a bulk carrier vessel, MV TAI HANG 8.

PCG said the incident happened in the vicinity waters near Paluan, Occidental Mindoro, at around 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5.

“Per accounts from the survivors, the boat was lying in Paluan waters attached to a ‘payao’ (a type of fish aggregating device used in the Philippines),” the PCG said.

“The ill-fated fishing banca Ruel J and its crew, alleged reportedly hit by MV TAI HANG 8, and was said to be left adrift as the foreign vessel continued its voyage unknowingly,” it added.

The rescued fishermen were Junrey Sardan, Ryan Jay Daus, Bryan Pangatungam, Cristian Arizala, and Joshua Barbas.

To ensure that the fishermen are in good condition, the Municipal Risk Reduction and Management conducted safety check-ups, and the barangay captain extended assistance to the rescued fishermen.

Moreover, the Municipality of Sablayan and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Sablayan pledged additional aid to support the survivors.

"The distressed boat's owner and crew expressed gratitude to the PCG for their support. The Coast Guard assured that the incident would be reported to MV TAI HANG 8's flag state and Port State Control office in adherence to maritime incident procedures," PCG said

"The Coast Guard is diligently engaged in coordinating with the ship's company, aiming to uncover the truth surrounding the incident," it added.