100 People Rescued From Distressed Ship In Basilan

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Philippine navy personnel rescued almost 100 guests and crew members from a distressed motor launch off Basilan last Tuesday.

The Naval Forces Western Mindanao (the NFWM) mentioned that the vessel dubbed ML Sulna was experiencing engine trouble in Pilas Island en route to the Turtle Islands from Zamboanga City.

The NFWM deployed a patrol craft close to 6:09 pm last Tuesday when the Maritime Security Awareness Center of Western Mindanao got a distress call. The Navy vessel reached the area almost three hours later and executed the rescue mission at dawn on Wednesday. The Coast Guard deployed a ship to carry out a search and rescue mission.

The two agencies rescued almost 100 individuals, including 17 members of the crew who belonged to the boat that Cesar Abdul operated.

Another transiting vessel named the ML Farah Mae reportedly towed the distressed one toward Baluk- Baluk Island for repairs.

The rescued were in stable medical condition, and the custody was handed over to relatives. At the same time, some, to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Zamboanga for disposition and assistance, the Naval Forces Western Mindanao mentioned in a statement.

Donn Anthony Miraflor, the NFWM commander, mentioned that the rescue of the guests and crew members reflects the Navy’s dedication to safeguarding the individuals from danger or harm.