Courtesy: PCG
THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) successfully rescued 15 individuals from a half-submerged motor banca off Baluk-Baluk Island, Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan, on February 27, 2026. The rescue operation was carried out by the Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Hadji Muhtamad, in collaboration with the fishing vessel Marcus 308.
The CGSS Hadji Muhtamad of Coast Guard Station Basilan (CGS BAS) swiftly deployed its Search and Rescue (SAR) Team after receiving reports of the incident at approximately 5 PM. Upon arriving at the scene, the team conducted ship-to-shore transfer operations for all 15 individuals from the distressed motor banca Sherylle. The individuals had been initially rescued by the passing fishing vessel F/V Marcus 308 of Mega Fishing Corporation.
All survivors were safely transported to shore and underwent medical assessment by the Brgy. Rural Health Unit (BRHU) Baluk-Baluk by 7 PM on the same date. Initial investigations revealed that the motor banca was transporting water cargo when one of its tanks collapsed, causing the vessel to become imbalanced and take on water, leading to its gradual submersion.
The effective coordination between CGSS Hadji Muhtamad and F/V Marcus 308 resulted in the successful rescue of all 15 individuals, comprising seven crew members and eight passengers of M/B Sherylle, with no reported casualties. The PCG emphasized the importance of continued vigilance and adherence to safety protocols to prevent similar incidents. The Coast Guard District Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CGDBARMM) reaffirmed the PCG’s commitment to safeguarding lives at sea.
