Missing fishermen rescued off Zambales

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Philippines — Four fishermen reported missing on Tuesday were rescued in the waters off Candelaria, Zambales on Thursday.

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-Pangasinan substation commander Alexander Corpuz said Edgar Bejar, 44; Jake Bejar, 19; Melchor Molato, 26, and Arnel Awanan, 46, were located following an aerial search by Philippine Air Force personnel.

The PCG conducted search and rescue operations after the wife of one of the fishermen sought assistance when the group failed to return on Sunday.

In Quezon, a fisherman reported missing while fishing off the coast of Mauban town on Wednesday was found safe at the house of his sister in Barangay Cagbalete 1 on Thursday morning.

Lt. Col. Rhoderick Armamento, Area Police Command-Southern Tagalog commander, said Willie Miranda told police he drifted at sea after his boat encountered engine problems due to strong winds and big waves.

Armamento said Miranda decided to paddle his boat until he reached the shore.