MALUSO, Basilan – Ten individuals were safely rescued after a motorized banca encountered distress in the seawaters off Barangay North Gaunan, Maluso, Basilan, prompting a swift Search and Rescue (SAR) operation by maritime police authorities on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.
According to authorities, personnel of the Basilan Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA), led by Station Chief Police Major Benzar M. Mukarram, immediately launched a rescue mission aboard HSTW-16 after receiving information about the distressed vessel.
The rescue team successfully located the motorized banca and safely evacuated all 10 persons who were onboard. The passengers were brought to safety without any reported casualties or injuries, highlighting the effectiveness and prompt response of the maritime rescue operation.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the circumstances that caused the motorized banca to become distressed. However, the successful operation prevented what could have escalated into a more serious maritime emergency.
The Basilan Maritime Police commended the coordinated efforts of the responding personnel, whose immediate action ensured the safety of all passengers despite the potential dangers posed by the incident at sea.
The incident also underscores the vital role of maritime law enforcement units in safeguarding lives across Basilan’s coastal communities, where motorized bancas remain a primary mode of transportation for residents and fishermen.
Authorities continue to remind boat operators and sea travelers to ensure their vessels are seaworthy before departing, monitor weather and sea conditions, carry adequate life-saving equipment, and immediately report maritime emergencies to the nearest authorities to facilitate rapid response.
The successful rescue adds to the ongoing efforts of the Philippine maritime police to strengthen maritime safety and emergency preparedness in the waters surrounding Basilan and neighboring island communities.