ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Philippine Navy’s Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC) rescued 30 passengers from a distressed motor launch off the waters east of Taganak municipality in Tawi-Tawi.

WMNC commander Rear Admiral Constancio Arturo M. Reyes Jr. said on Saturday that the BRP Juan Magluyan (PC392) was conducting a routine maritime patrol around 46 nautical miles east of Taganak when it spotted a flashing light about five nautical miles off its port bow at around 9:30 p.m. Friday.

The naval vessel proceeded to the area and found M/L Nurdia floating after suffering a broken rudder.

Reyes said despite challenging sea conditions, the crew conducted a rescue and assistance operation, safely embarking all 30 passengers — 16 males, nine females and five children — including one pregnant passenger and two senior citizens.

At around 4:45 a.m. Saturday, all rescued passengers were safely disembarked at Taganak Pier and turned over to the local government unit without incident.

Immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, water, and medical support, was provided by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard in Taganak, Reyes said.

The WMNC reiterated its commitment to maritime safety and emergency response operations.