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Five fishermen missing off Occidental Mindoro after failed return

The Philippine Coast Guard launched a search operation Tuesday after five fishermen from Santa Cruz failed to return from a fishing expedition near Barangay Poblacion. The missing men were identified as Romnick Temenia, 35; Ronelio Temenia, 33; Arjhay Ortea, 30; Aldrin Bonilia, 34; and Agustin Ramirez, 50.

LSN Philippines · 20 August 2026

The five fishermen departed from Santa Cruz town in Occidental Mindoro on a routine fishing trip but did not arrive at their expected destination, prompting authorities to file a missing persons report.

The Coast Guard immediately mobilized search and rescue assets to comb the waters off Barangay Poblacion where the fishing vessel was last known to be operating. Maritime authorities have not yet disclosed details regarding the condition of the vessel or possible causes for the failed return.

Investigations remain ongoing as rescue operations continue in the area. Authorities have appealed to fishing communities and maritime users in the vicinity to report any sightings or information that could aid in locating the missing men.

The incident adds to growing concerns about maritime safety in the region, where weather conditions and challenging sea states frequently pose hazards to fishing vessels operating in Philippine waters.