PCG: Elements of BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408) together with Special Operation Unit-South Western Mindanao personnel rescued three individuals last 09 January 2018 who went missing at vicinity waters of Celebes sea.

The three missing individuals are seaweed farmers identified as Bakri Nuli, 30 yrs old from Sitangkai Tawi-Tawi; Michael Suwaib, 35 yrs old; and Al Mujer Anim, 18 years old both from Isabela Basilan.

According to the three survivors, they left Bongao, Tawi-Tawi last 22 December 18 going to Sitangkai using bote bangka “Reebok” yamaha with outboard motor. At 06:00 pm of the same date, the motor boat encountered engine trouble where in the operator was not able to rectify which cause the boat to drift away going to Celebes Sea.

On January 3, 2018 fishing banca San Andres 757, owned and operated by San Andres Fishing Industries, Inc (SAFI) from General Santos City, spotted said persons and immediately rendered assistance. The said F/b crew reported the said incident to their agent in General Santos City who then immediately reported to Coast Guard Station General Santos.

With proper coordination to CG District South Western Mindanao, the BRP Cape San Agustin proceeded to rendezvous area and rendered necessary assistance to the rescued individuals.

Upon arrival at Ben Go Wharf, Zamboanga City, the three survivors were turned over to CGS Zamboanga and were brought to Camp Navarro Hospital at Western Mindanao Command.