SEARCH FOR LEO. Strong waves batter the Philippine Coast Guard’s boat during a search for a missing fisherman in Manticao, Misamis Oriental on Sunday (Sept. 15, 2024). Rescue efforts resumed on Monday to locate 62-year-old Leo Tecson, who disappeared off Panguil Bay. (Photo courtesy of Divina M. Suson/MDRRMO Manticao)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The municipality of Manticao in Misamis Oriental halted all fishing operations on Monday as the search continues for a fisherman who went missing during severe weather.
Divina Suson, head of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), said rescuers are working to locate 62-year-old Leo Tecson, who was last seen departing for Panguil Bay in his boat on Sept. 11.
Manticao Mayor Stephen Tan had earlier issued an advisory discouraging fishermen from venturing into Panguil Bay due to large waves brought by Tropical Storm Gener.
“A formal order may soon be issued to warn coastal barangays against fishing until the weather improves,” Suson said.
The missing fisherman's son, Leonardo Tecson, reported that his father set off on the morning of Sept. 11 and was expected to return early the next day.
“We fear that his boat engine may have failed, leaving him unable to come back. We ask the local government for help to rescue him from his usual fishing spot,” Leonardo said, adding his father often fishes near Oroquieta City in Misamis Occidental.
He added this was not the first time his father had faced engine trouble at sea.
On Sept. 13, the MDRRMO deployed four boats with volunteer fishermen to search Panguil Bay.
Erwin Paradero, leader of the rescue volunteer team, said they found the missing fisherman's net near Initao, Misamis Oriental, but no further signs of Tecson.
“We believe the current may have carried him toward Camiguin or the eastern part of Misamis Oriental,” Paradero said.
On Saturday, only one volunteer boat continued the search as others were deterred by rough waves and strong winds.
Despite additional assistance from the Philippine Coast Guard’s Lanao del Norte Station and Iligan City’s Water Search and Rescue Team, the fisherman remains missing as of Monday. (PNA)
