Tragedy in Sta. Ana, Cagayan: 7 Fishermen drown as boat capsizes

Sta. Ana, Cagayan - Seven fishermen were confirmed dead after a fishing boat ferrying 13 people tipped off the coast of Barangay San Vicente, Sta. Ana, Cagayan on September 22, 2025.

According to the initial investigation, as cited by the Coast Guard District North Eastern Luzon (CGDNEL), the boat that had taken temporary shelter in the area was struck by strong waves and winds brought by Super Typhoon Nando, causing it to tilt and eventually capsize.

Lt. Junior Grade Lamie Manglugay, spokesperson for the CGDNEL, reported that the Fishing Banca Jhobenz capsized at approximately 12:30 p.m.

The boat was cut open by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) using a chainsaw to determine whether any crew members were trapped inside.

Manglugay added that all crew members were residents of Quezon Province. Later, the Cagayan Police Provincial Office confirmed that only 9 are from Quezon; 2 are from Aurora; 1 from Daet Camarines Norte and 1 from Sto. Nino Cagayan.

On September 23, one of the seven was found dead, and the other six were later discovered this September 24 with the persistent joint search, rescue, and retrieval operation conducted by the Sta. Ana Police Station, PCG, Philippine Navy, PNP Maritime Group, Sta. Ana MDRRMO, and local fishermen.

On the other hand, in the joint search and rescue efforts carried out by the PCG and the Sta. Ana Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), six were saved from the tragedy. Four of them were found by the rescue team when the boat was cut open. Said four were immediately brought to the St. Anthony’s Hospital for immediate medical care. The other 2 were rescued later.

The Cagayan PPO extended their condolences and acknowledged the contributions of all members of the search and rescue for the efforts.