ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Philippine Coast Guard rescued nine passengers from a distressed motor banca in the sea of Zamboanga del Norte province at dawn on Friday, Dec. 2.
The passengers were identified as Henry Burong, 35; Diego Burong, 35; Surafi Anapi, 43; Benjar Luntian, 42; Isa Musa, 42; Aldamer Alih, 30; Boy Saguile, 27; Bader Barahim, 43; and Magno Dalawis, 52.
The motor banca hit a hard object that damaged its hull while on the way to Dipolog City from Hasiman Tanjung, Sulu.
The half-submerged boat drifted towards Liloy town, Zamboanga del Norte and sea water began to enter the vessel.
Coast Guard personnel were able to communicate with the crew of the distressed vessel and coordinated with the M/V Empress Amy to rescue the passengers.
The passengers were rescued after the motor banca was spotted in waters off Liloy and Dipolog City.
The MV Empress Amy towed the vessel to the Lamao Port in Liloy while the passengers were declared in good physical condition after a medical examination.