Caramoran, Catanduanes – After several days of search efforts, the Tabaco City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) has confirmed that the body found along the shores of Palumbanes Island belongs to 18-year-old Santino Bordeos y Buban from Barangay Pawa, Tabaco City, Albay. Bordeos was among nine fishermen reported missing since January 1, 2025.

According to Gel Molato Jr. of CDRRMO Tabaco, in an interview with Radyo Peryodiko, Bordeos was identified through a tattoo on his left hand bearing the word “Bordeos.” “He got the tattoo last year, which served as the basis for confirming his identity. We were on our way to Palumbanes on Monday to retrieve the body,” Molato stated.

The search continues for the remaining eight fishermen, including five aboard an orange-and-blue boat:

  • Rafael Idanan, 42, married
  • Melchor Bordeos, 51, married
  • Jeremy Icawat, 22, single
  • Noel Basi, 21, single
  • Edwardson Datu, 33, married

And three aboard a blue boat:

  • Alvin Naldo, 62, married
  • Angelo Naldo, 32, married
  • Pudi Naldo, 37, married

Seven of the missing fishermen are from Balognonan, Pandan, Catanduanes, while two are residents of Tabaco City, Albay.

Reports indicate that the fishermen departed on January 1, 2025, heading toward Boya near the Pacific Ocean. Their last communication was on the same day of their departure.

Inclement weather delayed the search and rescue operations, but authorities are appealing for assistance from nearby provinces and communities. “We are calling on fellow DRRMOs in Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and other coastal areas to provide any information regarding the missing boats and fishermen,” Molato added.

Pandan Mayor Raul Tabirara assured the public that their local government is exerting every effort to locate the missing fishermen. “We encourage residents in nearby areas to report any signs or information that could aid in the search,” he said.

The local governments of Pandan and Tabaco have extended their condolences to the Bordeos family for their tragic loss while other families remain hopeful for the discovery of their missing loved ones.

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