PCG: A total of 60 passengers including the crew were brought to safety by the search and rescue (SAR) team of Coast Guard Station (CGS) Bongao from a distressed motor launch “Nurhidzra” at the vicinity waters of Sitio Subah, Manangkai, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi yesterday, December 20.

Reports disclosed that personnel of CGS Bongao received a call from Mr Muhsin Durje Amil, captain of ML Nurhidzra informing that the vessel encountered steering casualty subsequently and drifted on the shallow area because of strong winds and current. ML Nurhidzra incurred damages to her port side freeboard causing her to take in seawater at the cargo holding area and submerged at her starboard side.

Said motor launch departed Bongao Chinese Pier bound for Languyan, Tawi-Tawi.