Personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Station Davao Oriental and Special Operations Unit - Southeastern Mindanao rescued five passengers of a submerged motorbanca at the vicinity waters off Pujada Bay, Mati City at around 05:00 p.m. yesterday, 17 April 2021.

The motorbanca departed from Barangay Macabol, Mati City, Davao Oriental and was on its way to the Vanishing Island in Davao del Norte when it encountered huge waves, causing it to capsize.

Immediately, the PCG deployed a search and rescue (SAR) team after receiving a distress call from one of passengers.

All passengers were rescued and underwent medical check-up provided by the Mati City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) personnel upon arrival at the Coast Guard Station Davao Oriental.

After confirming they were all in good physical condition, the CDRRMO ferried the individuals to their respective residences.