PCG frontliner dies, six injured in vehicular accident in Batangas

May 27, 2020

A frontline personnel of Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) died while six  were injured in a vehicular accident in Batangas on Tuesday.

According to PCG, the incident happened along  STAR Tollway in Ibaan around 2:43 pm.

Based on initial report, the seven personnel onboard a multipurpose van of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) District – Southern Tagalog was on their way to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) from Sta. Clara, Batangas when  a tire exploded.

According to PCG, their personnel  were supposed to extend assistance to the nationwide “Bayanihan Repatriation” program for overseas Filipino workers, Filipino seafarers, and returning Filipinos.

One of the seven PCG frontline personnel identified as Apprentice Seaman (ASN) Cenen Epetito was declared dead on arrival at the Batangas Healthcare Specialists Medical Center at around 03:29 pm.

Another one identified as ASN Adrian Añonuevo acquired minor hematoma and remains under intensive medical supervision.

 Seaman Second Class (SN2) Pacifico Casipi, SN2 Erdie Rojales, ASN Rouin Alvarez, ASN John Kristopher Mojica, and Candidate Coast Guard Man (CCGM) McLester Saguid were conscious when they arrived at the hospital.

The injured underwent X-ray, CT scan, and suture, and remain under hospital confinement until they are declared in good physical condition.

"The command will extend necessary assistance to the bereaved family of ASN Epetito who selflessly fought the battle for public health and safety amid COVID-19 pandemic," the PCG said

"As to the survivors, the Command assures that they will receive all needed medical treatment until they regain their strength to perform their call of duty again – which is to serve the nation and uphold the welfare of the Filipino people," he added. Robina Asido/DMS