The Philippine Navy on Saturday reported the successful rescue of 90 passengers from a distressed vessel off the coast of Languyan, Tawi-Tawi on 12 June.

According to the Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC), the Filipino motor launch LEN-LYN departed Pangutaran, Sulu bound for Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi, when it suffered an engine failure mid-voyage.

At around 1:30 PM, the Navy received a distress call via Viber from a passenger aboard the vessel, which was reported to be adrift approximately 3.4 nautical miles north of Tumbagaan Island.

Upon receiving the alert, the BRP General Mariano Alvarez (PS176) was immediately dispatched to the vessel’s last known location near Languyan Island.

The PS176 coordinated with Naval Task Force 61 and maintained continuous communication with the stranded vessel before safely towing it to Chinese Pier in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.

All 90 passengers were safely accounted for and reported unharmed.

“This successful maritime rescue operation underscores the Philippine Navy’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding lives at sea and ensuring safe passage for vessels transiting within the Western Mindanao area of responsibility,” said WMNC Public Affairs Officer LCDR Chester Ross Cabaltera.