7 reported missing off Cagayan

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — A search and rescue operation is ongoing for seven people who went missing in the waters off Calayan Island in Cagayan on Wednesday.

The seven left Claveria town at around 4:30 a.m. on board a small boat to Barangay Dilam in Calayan, but they did not reach their destination.

Authorities are verifying information that the boat had five crewmembers and two passengers on board. They are also verifying reports that one of the passengers is a member of the Philippine Coast Guard.

The Cagayan Public Information Office said relatives of the missing people confirmed the incident and sought the help of authorities.