Coast Guard commander, 7 others relieved as search for missing boat continues

Davao City — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) relieved the commander of the Sta. Ana Substation and seven personnel from their duties Thursday as the search continues for a motorbanca missing for four days with 15 people still unaccounted for.

Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao deputy commander Macy Gabion announced the relief during a press briefing at the Sta. Ana Wharf. Gabion said the personnel were reassigned to the district headquarters pending an investigation into the disappearance of the MBCA Amejara.

The recreational outrigger boat departed Davao City for Governor Generoso on 19 January but was reported missing shortly after.

Authorities confirmed the vessel sailed without a permit from the Maritime Industry Authority or travel clearance from the Coast Guard.

“If they were not careless, this incident would not have happened,” Gabion said.

One survivor, crew member Christopher Bulig, was rescued Tuesday. Search and rescue operations remain underway for the remaining passengers and crew. Gabion stressed that the Coast Guard’s primary focus remains on the search, noting that “time is critical.”

The Police Regional Office-Davao, the PNP Maritime Group, and local disaster agencies are coordinating the search efforts.

“All agencies involved are firm in their resolve to safeguard lives and uphold public safety,” said Brig. Gen. Leon Victor Rosete, regional director of PRO-11.

The MBCA Amejara was reportedly carrying 16 people in total. Gabion said further details regarding the vessel’s final intended destination and the circumstances of its departure are still being verified.