ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) successfully carried out a medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, for a 55-year-old Chinese crew member who was electrocuted aboard a foreign vessel while transiting the Basilan Strait.
According to the Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao (CGDSWM), a distress call was received at around 10:20 a.m. from the foreign-flagged vessel MV Min Hua 9, urgently requesting medical assistance for the injured crewman.
Responding without delay, CGDSWM deployed BRP Tubbataha (MRRV 4401) along with a medical team from Medical–Southwestern Mindanao (MED-SWM). The rescue team immediately departed from Bengo Wharf, Zamboanga City, racing against time to reach the vessel.
At approximately 11:30 a.m., the PCG team arrived at the location of MV Min Hua 9, situated south of ENS Majini Pier, Naval Station Romulo Espaldon (NSRE) in Zamboanga City. The patient was safely transferred from the vessel and brought back to Bengo Wharf, arriving at 12:07 p.m.
Upon arrival, the injured crew member was formally turned over to the Bureau of Quarantine and MED-SWM personnel before being rushed to the nearest hospital for further medical treatment.
The Chinese Embassy in Manila expressed gratitude for the swift action of Philippine authorities. Guo Wei, Deputy Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy, conveyed sincere thanks to the Philippine Coast Guard for extending timely assistance to the Chinese crew member.
The operation underscored the PCG’s unwavering commitment to saving lives and ensuring maritime safety, regardless of nationality, in Philippine waters.