Search for missing divers in Boracay halted due to poor visibility

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Coast Guard has suspended its search and rescue operations for the seven people, including three foreigners, who went missing while on a diving expedition near Boracay Island. Lt. Commander Juan Manuel Ramos, chief of the Caticlan Coast Guard, said the operations were halted 6 p.m. Thursday due to poor visibility. He, however, assured that operations would resume Friday morning. Ramos said that they have already requested choppers from the PCG main office in Manila for a possible aerial survey to look for the group. Reports reaching the PCG main headquarters in Manila said the missing group included four Filipino tour guides and three Spanish divers. The group was on board MB Maruja. PCG information officer Lt. Sr. Grade Gary Dale Gimotea said MB Maruja developed engine trouble and drifted southeast of Sibay Island in Caluyan, Antique. Commodore William Melad, district commander of PCG Iloilo, said authorities received the report on the incident around 6:30 a.m. He said the passengers used their cellular phones to ask the PCG for assistance. - Jun Ariolo N. Aguirre, GMANews.TV