Search Operation Continues for Missing Surveyor After Maritime Accident in Talisay City
A search and rescue operation is actively underway for a surveyor who fell from a cargo vessel into the waters off Barangay Pooc in Talisay City, Cebu. The incident occurred on the morning of Friday, February 20, 2026, prompting immediate emergency responses from local authorities and vessel crews.
Details of the Incident and Victim Identification
Petty Officer 2nd Class Roland Lorenzana, Commander of the Talisay City Coast Guard, has identified the missing individual as John Carel Romano, a 26-year-old married resident of Barangay Quiot in Cebu City. Romano was employed as a surveyor or checker for Webb Fontaine Asia, a role that involved maritime inspections.
According to an investigation and incident report filed by Chief Officer Venancio Castigon Jr. of the MV Jerrica M, the accident took place at approximately 9:40 a.m. on that fateful Friday. Romano, accompanied by another surveyor, was attempting to ascend a "monkey ladder"—a type of rope ladder used for boarding ships—onto the foreign cargo vessel M/V Goobi when the mishap occurred.
Rescue Efforts and Challenges Faced
Witnesses from the crew of the MV Jerrica M reported that Romano slipped and fell into the sea. They immediately shouted "Man Overboard!" and threw a life ring into the water in an attempt to assist him. One crew member bravely jumped into the ocean to rescue Romano, but this effort proved unsuccessful due to the depth of the water and the strong currents and waves, which created hazardous conditions.
Initial reports from Romano's colleague suggest that the monkey ladder may not have been properly secured or tied when he was using it, potentially leading to his fall. This highlights possible safety lapses in maritime operations that are now under scrutiny.
Coordination and Ongoing Search Operations
The Talisay City Coast Guard responded swiftly after receiving the report and coordinated with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) 7 headquarters to launch a search and rescue mission. The operation lasted for over an hour initially but was unable to locate Romano.
Due to deteriorating weather conditions and darkness, the search was temporarily halted. However, Commander Lorenzana has announced that efforts will resume to continue the search for the missing surveyor. Crew members from both the MV Jerrica M and MV Goobi are actively cooperating with authorities to facilitate a prompt discovery of the victim.
This incident underscores the risks associated with maritime work and the critical importance of safety protocols in such environments. As the search persists, the community and authorities remain hopeful for a positive outcome.
