DATU BLAH SINSUAT, Maguindanao del Norte – Six passengers were safely rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) after the motor banca they were riding capsized in the waters off Barangay Pura, Datu Blah Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, on July 29, 2026, following rough sea conditions.
According to the PCG, the rescue operation was immediately launched after a concerned citizen alerted authorities about the maritime incident. Coast Guard personnel promptly responded to the area, enabling the successful rescue of all six passengers before the situation could turn tragic.
Initial investigation revealed that the motor banca was traveling from Barangay Pura to Barangay Nalkan when it encountered strong waves. The rough sea conditions reportedly damaged the vessel’s left outrigger, causing the banca to lose stability and eventually capsize.
Despite the dangerous conditions, all six passengers were safely retrieved from the water by responding Coast Guard personnel. They were immediately transported to the local Rural Health Unit (RHU) for medical assessment and treatment.
Authorities said the rescued passengers were later discharged after medical personnel confirmed that they were in stable condition and did not sustain life-threatening injuries.
Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil L. Gavan praised the responding Coast Guard personnel for their swift, coordinated, and professional response, emphasizing that their immediate action was instrumental in preventing the incident from resulting in fatalities.
“The quick response of our personnel demonstrates the Philippine Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives at sea,” the Commandant said as he recognized the rescue team’s dedication and efficiency.
The successful operation also highlights the PCG’s continued implementation of its iCARE (Intensified Community Assistance, Awareness, Response, and Enforcement) program, which focuses on strengthening maritime safety, community engagement, and rapid emergency response across the country’s coastal communities.
In addition, the rescue reflects the Coast Guard’s ONE (Organized National Engagement) at Sea strategic concept, which promotes a unified, proactive, and compassionate approach to maritime law enforcement, public safety, and disaster response.
The PCG once again reminded mariners and sea travelers to exercise caution, especially during periods of rough weather, and to monitor official weather advisories before embarking on sea voyages. The Coast Guard also encouraged the public to immediately report maritime emergencies to the nearest Coast Guard station to ensure rapid response and save lives.