Jolo, Sulu – August 5, 2025 — Quick action and coordinated efforts from multiple agencies saved six lives Tuesday night after a Jungkung-type vessel capsized between the waters of Bangas and Jolo.
At approximately 7:30 PM, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) of Sulu received a distress call via their hotline reporting a capsized boat in the area. The PDRRMO Operations Center immediately alerted the Philippine Coast Guard (Western Sulu Station), which had also received a similar report and wasted no time deploying floating assets to the location.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group was likewise mobilized to assist in the rescue operations. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) teams from both PDRRMO and the Philippine Red Cross each dispatched an ambulance with trained personnel, while the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO)-Sulu placed its emergency room on alert for possible casualties.
By 8:45 PM, all six passengers and crew of the Jungkung were successfully rescued and brought safely to Jolo Wharf at around 9:16 PM. Only one individual sustained a minor laceration on the right side of the mouth and was immediately given medical attention.
Officials credited the seamless coordination among responding agencies for the swift and successful outcome.
“On behalf of Governor Abdusakur ‘Toto’ Tan II, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all responders and agencies involved in the successful rescue operation,” a PDRRMO statement read. “Your quick response and dedication ensured the safety of all those on board.”
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness, vigilance, and inter-agency coordination in emergency maritime situations.