PCG rescues ill crew member from passenger vessel off Batangas

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) successfully evacuated a crew member from a passenger vessel off the coast of Batangas after he exhibited signs of a mild stroke while the ship was traveling toward Manila. The incident occurred on Sunday, July 19, when the vessel was navigating waters south of Maricaban Island in Tingloy, Batangas. According to reports, the 57-year-old third engineer became unwell and displayed symptoms consistent with a mild stroke during the journey from Cagayan de Oro City to Manila. The PCG-Batangas unit received an emergency medical evacuation request via the Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) Batangas at 11:20 a.m. A response team swiftly arrived at the scene and assessed the situation. They found the crew member conscious and responsive, indicating that he was still alert despite his condition. The crew promptly coordinated with local authorities to ensure immediate assistance. Fellow crew members shared that the affected individual had not taken his prescribed maintenance medication prior to the incident. Upon waking, he reportedly experienced numbness in one of his legs, which prompted the crew to recognize the severity of his condition. This led them to contact the VTMS and initiate the emergency evacuation process. Coast Guard personnel boarded the vessel and conducted a thorough check of the crew member's health status. After confirming the need for urgent medical attention, they arranged for the man to be transferred to a rigid-hull inflatable boat. This allowed the passenger vessel to continue its voyage to Manila without delay. The crew member was then safely transported to the port of Batangas, where he was handed over to a waiting ambulance. The patient was subsequently taken to Batangas Health Care Specialists Medical Center for further evaluation and treatment. Medical professionals will determine the extent of his condition and provide appropriate care. The incident highlights the importance of regular medication adherence among seafarers, especially those working long hours in isolated environments. The PCG team emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals at sea. Their swift response and coordination with local medical facilities exemplify the agency's dedication to maritime safety. The vessel continued its journey to Manila under the supervision of the Coast Guard, demonstrating the effectiveness of emergency protocols in place. This incident underscores the challenges faced by maritime workers, who often operate in remote areas with limited access to healthcare services. It also reinforces the necessity of maintaining strict health protocols and ensuring that crew members have access to necessary medications. As the crew member receives further medical attention, the focus remains on supporting his recovery and preventing similar incidents in the future.