Boat capsizes off Negros Occidental; 17 rescued

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — Fifteen passengers and two crewmembers of a boat were rescued when the vessel capsized in a marine reserve area off the coast of Sagay City, Negros Occidental on Friday.

 No one was reported hurt, but the incident caused panic among the victims, including six children, a senior citizen and a person with disability.

The victims were rescued by personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Association of Sagay Ferry Boats and fishermen.

City tourism officer Helen Cutillar said the victims were on their way to Carbin Reef for a family outing when the boat was hit by big waves.