THE Philippine Navy's BRP-Jose Loor Sr. (PC390) rescued 121 people aboard a wooden-hulled vessel reported missing and in distress in the province of Tawi-Tawi, the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) said Wednesday, January 15, 2025.
Rear Admiral Francisco Tagamolila Jr., NFWM commander, said the wooden-hulled vessel, M/L J Sayang 1, was rescued on Tuesday, January 14, approximately 5.4 nautical miles west of Siklangkalong Island, Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi.
"The vessel, carrying 106 passengers and 15 crew members, had been stranded for nearly six days due to engine failure and adverse weather conditions," Tagamolila said in a statement.
The M/L J Sayang 1 was reported missing on January 8 while sailing from Zamboanga City to the Tutle Islands, the last municipality in the southern Philippines province of Tawi-Tawi.
Tagamolila said M/L Sayang 1 experienced engine trouble near the island town of Pangutaran, Sulu while it was in the midst of its voyage.
"Though initially repaired, the vessel suffered further mechanical issues, leaving it adrift without fuel or communication capabilities," Tagamolila said.
He said the Philippine Navy and other maritime agencies managed to launch a coordinated response after local fishermen spotted the vessel drifting vessel near Pearl Bank, Languyan, Tawi-Tawi.
Upon reaching the vessel, the crew of BRP-Jose Loor Sr. provided fresh water, food supplies, medical aid, and internet access to allow passengers to contact their families.
M/L J. Sayang 1 was safely towned to Taja Island, Pearl Bank, Tawi-Tawi despite the unfavorable weather condition and collision risks.
"All passengers and crew were reported to be in good physical condition but were psychologically distressed after days of limited food and water," Tagamolila said.
He said relief vessel, M/L Arneza arrived around 5 p.m. Tuesday, January 14, delivering additional fuel and provisions and assisted in towing M/L J Sayang 1 to its final destination at Turtle Islands, Tawi-Tawi.
He said successful rescue highlighted the Philippine Navy's dedication to maritime safety and security.
He added that the cooperation among local authorities, the Philippine Navy, and the Philippine Coast Guard demonstrates the importance of unified efforts in responding to maritime emergencies. (SunStar Zamboanga)