MANAY, Davao Oriental — Authorities have launched an ongoing search and rescue operation for six fishermen who were reported missing in the waters off Manay town in Davao Oriental, according to the Philippine Coast Guard.
The operation is being led by the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) after the fishermen failed to return from a fishing venture on February 20, 2026.
The missing individuals were identified as Ignacio Manuel, 52; Cristobal Manuel, 27; Jose Sarajena, 70; Darwin Mag-aso, 43; Alejandro Dormal Jr., 48; and Jacinto Pacyao, 56. They were aboard a motorized banca named MBCA Leizl when they disappeared in the waters near Manay.
Search Efforts Intensify
Coast Guard personnel from CGDSEM, through the Coast Guard Station in Davao Oriental, immediately initiated search and rescue operations upon receiving reports that the fishermen had not returned home. Authorities are currently coordinating with local mariners and fishing communities to widen the search coverage across the surrounding sea areas.
The Coast Guard also issued a public advisory urging all vessels, watercraft, and fisherfolk navigating within or near the waters of Manay to remain vigilant and assist in the search for the missing fishermen and their boat.
“Nearby vessels are advised to keep a lookout,” the Coast Guard said, as it appealed to the maritime community to report any possible sightings that could help locate the group.
Appeal for Information
Authorities emphasized that any information regarding the whereabouts of the fishermen or the motor banca Leizl could be crucial to the ongoing rescue efforts. Individuals who may have seen the missing fishermen or their vessel are urged to immediately report to the nearest Coast Guard station.
Reports can also be relayed through the Coast Guard Station Davao Oriental hotline at 0966-837-0536 for prompt coordination and response.
As of this writing, Coast Guard officials said verification of additional details surrounding the incident is still underway, while search teams continue combing the waters off Davao Oriental in hopes of locating the fishermen safely.