Two Panamanian fishermen were rescued from their sinking vessel in the Pacific Ocean early Saturday morning. The Servicio Nacional Aeronaval (National Aeronaval Service) executed the successful operation south of Otoque Island.
The national agency’s rescue teams located the distressed boat around dawn on December 20. Officials reported the small yellow and white vessel was taking on water in rough seas, creating a high-risk situation for its two occupants.
Coordinated Search and Rescue Effort
The rescue mission unfolded through coordinated efforts between two key operational centers. The National Directorate of Aeronaval Operations (Dinoa) and the Regional Center of Aeronaval Operations (Croan) managed the response. Patrol vessel P-843 first made contact with the semi-submerged fishing boat.
“The two crew members were safely evacuated and transported to Punta Chame with the support of the BPC-3706, which facilitated the landing maneuver to a safe port.” [Translated from Spanish]
Following the initial extraction, Patrol 860 transported the fishermen to receive medical attention. Their condition was not specified, but standard procedure after such ordeals involves a full check-up. This operation highlights the ongoing work of the servicio nacional aeronaval across multiple domains.
Part of a Broader Holiday Safety Campaign
Authorities confirmed this rescue was part of “Operación Fin de Año Seguro 2025” (Safe End of Year Operation 2025). The initiative falls under the broader Plan Firmeza guidelines. Its goal is to strengthen surveillance and ensure timely emergency response during the busy holiday season.
The agency stated the mission reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding human life at sea. It maintains national operational presence by air, sea, and land for precisely this purpose. Successful Search and Rescue (SAR) missions depend on this integrated approach.
Officials used the incident to reiterate a safety plea to the maritime community. They urged all boaters to exercise extreme caution before setting sail. The nacional aeronaval also reminded the public to report any emergency immediately by calling the 24-hour hotline at 108.