DAVAO CITY — Seven individuals, including a boat captain, were successfully rescued after their motorbanca submerged in the waters off Kilometer 10, Barangay Sasa, Davao City, on the afternoon of August 5, thanks to the swift response of the Philippine Coast Guard and its maritime partners.
According to the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM), the rescue operation was carried out through the Coast Guard Station Island Garden City of Samal (CGS IGACOS) after the distressed vessel was spotted by the crew of MV Maewess 4 while en route to the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS).
Also onboard the vessel were Coast Guard Sea Marshal personnel, who immediately joined the rescue effort after noticing the occupants of the sinking motorbanca struggling in the water. Acting without delay, they safely recovered all seven passengers and transported them to Maewess Port, where the rescued individuals were given first aid and initial medical assistance.
Following the rescue, personnel from CGS IGACOS coordinated with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) and other concerned agencies to ensure that all survivors received appropriate medical care. Two of the rescued individuals, who sustained minor injuries during the incident, were later brought to the Davao del Norte–IGACOS Zone Hospital for further medical evaluation and treatment.
Initial findings from the Coast Guard’s investigation revealed that the motorbanca encountered strong winds and rough water currents while conducting a sea trial, causing the vessel to lose stability and eventually submerge.
Authorities later secured the submerged motorbanca in the waters off Barangay Caliclic, IGACOS. The vessel will undergo further assessment before it is turned over to its rightful owner.
The incident underscores the importance of rapid emergency response and effective coordination among maritime safety agencies, which helped prevent what could have been a tragic loss of life.
CGDSEM commended the vigilance and quick action of the crew of MV Maewess 4 and the embarked Coast Guard Sea Marshal personnel, whose immediate response ensured the safe rescue of all those onboard the distressed vessel.
The Philippine Coast Guard likewise reminded all boat operators and vessel owners to exercise caution before sailing, especially during unpredictable weather conditions. Authorities urged mariners to regularly monitor weather advisories, ensure their vessels are seaworthy, and strictly observe maritime safety protocols to prevent similar incidents.
The successful rescue serves as another testament to the Coast Guard’s continuing commitment to protecting lives at sea and strengthening maritime safety across Southeastern Mindanao.