Three fishermen die in dynamite blast off Masbate

February 19, 2020

Three fishermen died due to a dynamite explosion off the waters of Masbate  on Monday, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported on Wednesday.

A report from the PCG Sub-Station in Calumpang said the fatalities were Arthur Villaruel, Lito Salvana, and Rosel Reyes.

The victims were fishing with the two others identified as Noli Almoguera and Jomar Dela Cruz when the incident happened along the vicinity of waters off Danao, Balud, Masbate around 8pm.

According to statement of Dela Cruz, he was guarding their motorboat while the victims and Almoguera were underwater. Then, an unidentified white motorboat came and allegedly threw a dynamite stick. 

The suspects immediately left the area following the explosion.

Three fishermen ere declared dead on arrival at the Balud Municipal Hospital.

The PCG said the motorboat, ‘Chinchin’ which was used by the victims was not damaged.

It is anchored at Barangay Poblacion, Balud, Masbate under the custody of the Balud Police Station for safekeeping amid investigation, added the PCG. Robina Asido/DMS