MANAY, Davao Oriental — After days of anxiety and search operations at sea, the six fishermen who were earlier reported missing off the waters of Manay have safely returned to their families, the Philippine Coast Guard confirmed.
According to the Coast Guard’s Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao, the operator and five crew members of the motorized banca MBCA Liezel were confirmed safe on February 27, 2026, bringing relief to their families and communities that had been anxiously awaiting updates since the group was reported missing earlier this week.
The update comes days after authorities launched a search and rescue operation in the waters off Manay when the fishermen failed to return from a fishing trip that began on February 20.
The missing fishermen were earlier 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 the motor banca when communication with them was lost, prompting alarm from their families and swift coordination among maritime authorities.
The Coast Guard Station in Davao Oriental reported that the fishermen had actually completed their fishing trip but were initially unreachable, which triggered concern and led to the mobilization of search teams and coordination with nearby fishing vessels and maritime communities.
Authorities from the Coast Guard also worked closely with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Davao Oriental to ensure proper assistance and monitoring of the returning crew.
Following their safe return, the six fishermen were brought to a hospital for medical evaluation and care. Officials said they are now in stable condition.
Earlier, the Coast Guard had appealed to vessels navigating the waters near Manay to remain vigilant and report any possible sightings of the fishermen or their boat as part of the search and rescue effort.
The successful return of the group has brought relief to their families and the local fishing community, while authorities continue to remind mariners and fisherfolk to maintain communication and safety measures while at sea to prevent similar incidents.