BASILAN, Philippines — A motorized banca traveling from Maluso, Basilan, to Jolo, Sulu, caught fire at sea on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, prompting a rescue operation by personnel of the Basilan Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA).
The incident occurred in the vicinity of the seawaters off North Gaunan, Maluso, Basilan, where a motorized banca reportedly suffered an engine-related fire while underway.
Initial investigation by authorities showed that the unmarked motorized banca was en route to Jolo, Sulu, after departing from Maluso when its engine suddenly sparked. The spark reportedly triggered a fire aboard the vessel, placing its occupants in immediate danger.
Personnel of the Basilan MARPSTA, led by Police Senior Master Sergeant (PSMS) Abdel Sidre A. Jailani and operating under the supervision of Police Major (PMAJ) Benzar M. Mukarram, station chief, immediately responded to the emergency.
The responding maritime police personnel were onboard a loaned motorized banca when they proceeded to the area after receiving information about the vessel in distress.
Upon reaching the affected banca, the responders immediately rendered assistance and successfully rescued the occupants.
The rescued individuals, along with the fire-affected motorized banca, were subsequently brought to the Basilan MARPSTA station for proper disposition and further assessment.
Authorities have yet to release additional details regarding the exact number of occupants aboard the vessel and the extent of damage caused by the fire.
The incident underscores the risks faced by passengers and boat operators traveling through Basilan’s waters, particularly when mechanical or engine problems occur while vessels are already at sea. Maritime authorities continue to remind boat operators to ensure that engines and other critical equipment are properly inspected before sailing.