Fishing Vessel Executes Timely Rescue of 15 in Basilan Waters
In a dramatic maritime rescue, a vessel operated by the locally based Mega Fishing Corporation successfully saved 15 individuals from a sinking motorboat off the coast of Basilan province. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) officially reported the incident on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, detailing the events that unfolded on the afternoon of Friday, February 27.
Rescue Operation Details and Location
The Coast Guard District Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CGDBarmm) stated that the rescue occurred at precisely 5:05 p.m. on February 27. The location was approximately four nautical miles east of Baluk-Baluk Island, within the municipality of Hadji Muhtamad in Basilan. The motorboat, named Sherylle, was found half-submerged, prompting immediate action.
Among the 15 rescued individuals, seven were crew members and the remaining eight were passengers aboard the ill-fated vessel. Their salvation came from the timely arrival of the fishing vessel F/V Marcus 308, owned by Mega Fishing Corporation, which happened to be passing through the area as the motorboat began to sink.
Coast Guard Response and Medical Assessment
Upon receiving reports of the incident, the Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS)-Hadji Muhtamad swiftly deployed its search and rescue team to the scene. In a statement, the CGDBarmm explained, "Upon arrival at the scene, the team conducted ship-to-shore transfer operations for all 15 individuals who had earlier been rescued by the passing fishing vessel F/V Marcus 308 of Mega Fishing Corporation."
All rescued persons were safely transported and underwent a thorough medical assessment by the Barangay Rural Health Unit Baluk-Baluk. This process was completed by 7:05 p.m. on the same Friday, ensuring no serious injuries were overlooked.
Investigation Findings and Safety Advisory
An investigation conducted by the CGDBarmm revealed the cause of the incident. The motorboat Sherylle was transporting water when one of its tanks collapsed. This failure caused the vessel to become imbalanced and take on water, leading to its gradual submersion. In light of this, the CGDBarmm has issued a strong advisory to all sea travelers, urging them to adhere strictly to safety protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
This rescue highlights the critical role of maritime vigilance and community cooperation in ensuring safety at sea, particularly in the challenging waters of Basilan province.
