Story by Mdpn. Hans Ibert David
Pubmat by Mdpn. Joshua Tanciano

Captain Roybel Tabobo, an Ilonggo master mariner and an alumnus of John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University commanded M/V Han Yi, one of the first vessels to respond to the May 25 incident off the coast of Kochi, Kerala, India when M/V MSC ELSA 3 capsized and sank due to a mechanical failure.

Acting to the situation at speed, Capt. Tabobo and his crew successfully rescued nine fellow Filipino seafarers from M/V MSC ELSA 3, when it sank and capsized, due to a ballast management system failure as Indian officials reported.

The container vessel was en route to Vizinjham Port when it experienced a 26-degree list last May 24, with approximately 640 containers and 13 with hazardous materials, M/V MSC ELSA 3 lost stability and met its fate in the early morning of May 25.

On the captain's act of heroism, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) extended a "Hero's Welcome" at NAIA Terminal 1 in Pasay City last June 4 on his return to the Philippines. He was greeted with banners, flowers, and applause from officials and personnel.

DMW Sec. Hans Leo. J. Cacdac lauded the Ilonggos' immediate response towards fellow seafarers in dire times and even put out the Filipino spirit—"selfless, decisive, and always ready to help one another."

Captain Tabobo's Hero's Welcome is a celebration under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in commemorating Filipino seafarers' sacrifices and hardwork, as well as their courage and bravery in times of need.

Reference: https://web.facebook.com/share/p/1aAy8DfGfL/