SIBUTU, Tawi-Tawi — In a powerful display of human endurance and sheer will to live, one of the survivors of the capsized outboard motorboat in the treacherous waters of the Sibutu Channel swam for hours against strong currents to reach safety, as authorities continue the search for those still missing.
The maritime incident occurred at around 11:00 a.m. on January 13, 2026, when an outboard engine motorboat traveling from Samporna to Bongao overturned in the Sibutu Channel. A total of 15 passengers, including adults and children, were onboard when the vessel capsized.
Amid the chaos and danger, two passengers managed to survive by swimming toward Sibutu. One of them, Nely Banjil, demonstrated extraordinary stamina and determination, reportedly reaching land at around 5:00 p.m.—nearly six hours after the incident—despite strong currents and exhaustion.
Banjil was found by a local fisherman, Kokkoh Abdulsam, who immediately extended help. She was later given medical attention at the residence of Mayor Nur-Fitra Pajiji-Ahaja, highlighting the swift and compassionate response of the local community.
Relentless Search and Rescue Efforts
The Sibutu Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), in close coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Sibutu Sub-Station, immediately launched search and rescue (SAR) operations upon receiving reports of the incident. These efforts have been continuous, with responders braving difficult sea conditions in hopes of finding more survivors.
On January 14, 2026, follow-up SAR operations were conducted by the MDRRMO, PCG Sibutu Sub-Station, PNP Municipal Police Station Sibutu, and other concerned agencies. However, no additional survivors were found during the latest search.
The two confirmed survivors have since been officially turned over to their families, while the Municipal Government of Sibutu provided cash assistance and continues to extend support to those affected.
Prayers for the Missing, Gratitude for the Rescuers
As uncertainty continues to weigh heavily on the families of those still unaccounted for, authorities are appealing to the public for prayers and support for the safe recovery of the missing passengers and the protection of rescuers on the ground and at sea.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all the victims, their families, and the brave responders who continue to risk their lives in these operations,” local officials said in a statement. The municipal government also expressed its deep appreciation to MDRRMO, PCG, PNP, and all individuals who offered help, prayers, and solidarity.
A Story of Survival, a Community in Vigil
While the Sibutu Channel tragedy has left pain and unanswered questions, the survival of Nely Banjil stands as a testament to the power of human resilience, faith, and the instinct to survive. Her long swim against unforgiving currents is not just a story of survival—it is a symbol of hope in the midst of tragedy.
As search operations continue, the entire community remains in vigil, united in prayer that more lives will be found and that families will soon receive the answers they are desperately waiting for.
Further updates will be released as verified information becomes available.