The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) rescued seven passengers of two distressed motorbancas at the vicinity waters off Bongo Island, Parang, Maguindanao yesterday, 01 July 2021.

The search and rescue (SAR) team, composed of personnel from the BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV-4411), PCG Sub-Station Polloc, and LGU of Barangay Polloc, found the motorbancas and swiftly rescued the victims.

They were in good physical condition, despite being soaked in seawater. They were transferred to a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) that brought them to Polloc Port for further assistance and inquiry about the maritime incidents.

According to the four passengers and one boat operator of motorbanca, PRINCE ABDULAZIS, they departed at Bongo Island after attending a wedding ceremony enroute to Barangay Binantao, Parang, Maguindanao. While underway, they encountered strong winds and heavy waves, causing them to break their motorbanca's outrigger until it capsized.

Fortunately, while clinging on to their capsized motorbanca, they were able to make a distress call to the nearest motorbanca, PRINCESS that immediately proceeded to their location to conduct SAR.

The two personnel of motorbanca, PRINCESS were able to rescue the five individuals who sought their assistance. However, they encountered engine trouble due to adverse sea condition. Subsequently, the owner of motorbanca, PRINCESS informed the LGU of Barangay Polloc about the maritime incidents for appropriate response.

After gathering information regarding said maritime incidents, the survivors were transported to their respective residences. Their motorbancas were also towed to Polloc Port for needed repair.

The survivors, their relatives, and concerned LGUs expressed their sincere gratitude to the PCG for their swift response, leading to the successful SAR operations.