SULU – Seven individuals, including three minors, were rescued after their motorized boat capsized off the coast of Higad Tanduh, Patikul, Sulu on Friday afternoon, July 11, 2025.
According to the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (BDRRMO) of Kajatan, Indanan, the boat was carrying residents of Sitio Tanjung, Kajatan when it sank at around 1:20 PM due to overloading and strong waves.
Fortunately, all passengers were safely rescued through the quick response of the motor launch (ML) Khanex, personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard Western Sulu Station led by Commander Al-Hafidz T. Bih, and the Barangay DRRM team of Kajatan headed by Barangay Chairman Salip Masul Sawadjaan and BDRRMO Hja. Jobeleen Sakilan Abdulahab-Isirani.
The rescued individuals were immediately provided with first aid. Authorities confirmed that there were no casualties or serious injuries reported.
“Alhamdulillah, all were saved. We thank all responders for their courage, swift action, and teamwork,” the BDRRMO stated.
The incident highlights the critical importance of observing proper safety measures at sea, especially during unstable weather conditions. Authorities remind all seafarers to avoid overloading vessels and to monitor weather advisories before setting sail.