Petty Officer Third Class (PO3) Ralph Barajan (Photo courtesy of PCG)
MANILA -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Vice Admiral Joel Garcia will promote Petty Officer Third Class (PO3) Ralph Barajan, who rescued the 51 ship passengers and seven crew of MV Siargao Princess after sinking off Sibonga, Cebu last, November 7 due to strong waves.
“PO3 Barajan will be promoted to Petty Officer Second Class (PO2) and will be eligible for commissionship to become a Coast Guard officer as a recognition for his exemplary attitude and courageous act to ensure the safety of lives despite being off-duty when the maritime incident occurred,” Garcia said in a statement on Tuesday.
Barajan narrated that he was on-board MV Siargao Princess to return to Coast Guard substation in Southern Cebu when he noticed the worsening condition of the vessel due to strong waves.
Immediately, he coordinated with the ship captain, then took the initiative to gather the ship passengers and crew.
After securing life jackets for children, Barajan accounted for everyone and initiated the group to jump off the sinking vessel.
Barajan said his training at the PCG prepared him to save people’s lives, as the situation required.
Garcia believed that Barajan has lived up PCG’s core values of professionalism, commitment, and gallantry.
The Commandant challenges all Coast Guard personnel to do the same and perform the duties and responsibilities of the PCG at all times and all costs in service to the nation. (PR)
