Fisherman hit by boat propeler, dies

CEBU, Philippines - A fisherman met his untimely death when he was hit by the propeler of the fishing boat he was helping dock in the northern town of San Remigio.

The incident happened at 9pm last Wednesday.

Investigation revealed that the fishing boat Rosalinda was docking in Sitio Talisay when the captain, Mario Batoy, ordered the victim, Quirico Servantes, 38, to swim underwater and help free the rope of the anchor, which got disentangled with the propeller.

The captain reportedly ordered the boat mechanic, Bernardo Layasi, to turn off the engine for Servantes’ safety, but Layasi reportedly failed to do so. Servantes was hit by the propeler the moment he swam beneath the boat. He sustained severe wounds on his head and stomach.

They rushed Servantes to the provincial hospital in the neighboring Bogo City but he was declared dead on arrival.

Batoy voluntarily surrendered to authorities. Police said Batoy and Layasi have criminal liability but it is up to the victim’s family whether or not to press charges.

As of yesterday, Servantes’ brother reportedly said their family is not certain to file charges, considering that the vessel’s owner, San Regimio Councilor Pablito Olivar, is reportedly willing to help them financially.  (FREEMAN)