Missing Fisherman Found Alive After 46 Days
CAST AWAY – A fisherman who went missing at sea in Quezon last month has been found alive near Batanes after 46 days, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
Robin Dejillo, 49, was reported missing on August 4 after being swept away by powerful currents and high waves while fishing. His remarkable journey saw him drifting approximately 700 kilometers from his original location, enduring nearly six weeks in the open ocean. This harrowing experience showcased his incredible resourcefulness, as he survived by drinking rainwater and consuming fish and coconuts he found floating in the water.
Dejillo, a resident of Purok Rosas in Barangay Dinahican, Infanta, Quezon, faced a life-threatening situation when his motorbanca ran out of gas, leaving him stranded and unable to return to his mother boat. It was only on September 19 that PCG personnel discovered him aboard his fishing vessel near Basco, marking a miraculous turn of events. His survival is a testament to his determination and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
Upon his rescue, Dejillo recounted the challenges he faced while adrift, including the struggle to find food and water amidst the vast ocean. He had to rely on his instincts and whatever resources he could muster, demonstrating remarkable ingenuity and tenacity. After being found, his fishing boat was towed to the Port of Basco, where he remained under observation while arrangements were made for his return home.
The Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog (CGDSTL) is actively coordinating with the Coast Guard Aviation Command to facilitate his safe transport back to Infanta, Quezon, following a thorough medical assessment to ensure his well-being. This extraordinary story of survival highlights the strength of the human spirit and underscores the importance of maritime safety, especially for those who brave the unpredictable forces of nature in pursuit of their livelihoods.
Related Post: BRP Teresa Magbanua Crew Survives on Lugaw and Rainwater After Struggles in WPS