DAVAO CITY — The Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) has formally terminated its month-long Search and Rescue (SAR) and Retrieval Operations for the missing motorbanca MBCA AMEJARA, which was reported missing on January 19, 2026.
The decision to conclude active operations came after an extensive and sustained campaign that spanned 30 days, including 15 days of intensified Search and Rescue efforts followed by another 15 days of extended Search and Retrieval Operations. The operations were officially closed on February 18, 2026, following what authorities described as a comprehensive assessment and the completion of all planned and extended search measures.
One Survivor Rescued, Others Still Missing
Throughout the operation, all available surface, aerial, and coastal monitoring assets were deployed across designated search areas. These included projected drift paths determined through prevailing weather conditions and oceanographic assessments, ensuring that search grids were scientifically guided and systematically covered.
Despite the breadth and intensity of the operation, only one survivor was successfully rescued. No additional survivors were located despite expanded search coverage and sustained inter-agency coordination.
Authorities did not disclose further details regarding the total number of individuals onboard at the time the motorbanca went missing. The fate of the remaining passengers remains uncertain.
Massive Inter-Agency Effort
CGDSEM led and coordinated the large-scale response in close collaboration with the Office of Civil Defense and multiple national and regional agencies. These included the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, Eastern Mindanao Command, Philippine Air Force – Tactical Operations Wing Eastern Mindanao, Philippine National Police Maritime Group, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, National Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
Local government units, maritime stakeholders, and volunteers also played vital roles in supporting search activities, coastal monitoring, and logistical requirements.
The Coast Guard emphasized that the operation involved the deployment of all available maritime and aerial assets, underscoring the scale and urgency of the response. Coordination mechanisms remained active throughout the month to ensure rapid information sharing and strategic adjustments based on evolving conditions at sea.
Message to Families
In its official statement, CGDSEM expressed sincere appreciation to all participating agencies, personnel, volunteers, and stakeholders whose dedication and professionalism were instrumental in carrying out the mission.
To the families of those who remain missing, the Coast Guard conveyed its deepest sympathies and solidarity, acknowledging the profound grief and uncertainty brought by the tragedy. Authorities stressed that every available resource and measure had been undertaken with diligence, compassion, and respect for the missing.
While active search operations have ended, CGDSEM assured the public that any verified information, credible reports, or recovered materials possibly related to MBCA AMEJARA will continue to be received, evaluated, and acted upon accordingly should circumstances warrant further action.
Renewed Call for Maritime Safety
In the wake of the incident, the Philippine Coast Guard reiterated its call to vessel operators and the broader maritime community to prioritize safety at sea. Authorities stressed strict adherence to maritime laws and safety regulations, proper voyage planning procedures, and close monitoring of weather advisories issued by competent authorities.
Ensuring seaworthiness and full compliance with established safety standards, the Coast Guard emphasized, remains essential in preventing maritime tragedies and safeguarding lives at sea.
The disappearance of MBCA AMEJARA stands as a somber reminder of the unpredictable nature of maritime travel and the critical importance of preparedness, vigilance, and inter-agency cooperation in responding to emergencies across the country’s vast coastal waters.