90 passengers rescued from distressed vessel

The Philippine Navy on Saturday said at least 90 passengers were rescued from a distressed vessel off the coast of Languyan, Tawi-Tawi on 12 June.

According to the Western Mindanao Naval Command, the vessel had departed Pangutaran, Sulu, bound for Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi, when it reportedly experienced engine failure mid-voyage.

At around 1:30 p.m. the Navy received a distress call via Viber from a passenger on board the Filipino motor launch LEN-LYN, which reported engine failure approximately 3.4 nautical miles north of Tumbagaan Island.

The vessel was en route from Pangutaran, Sulu, to Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi when it encountered the mechanical issue, leaving it adrift in open waters.

The BRP General Mariano Alvarez (PS176) immediately proceeded to the last known location of the vessel near Languyan Island to rescue the passengers.

The crew of PS176 coordinated with Naval Task Force 61 and established continuous communication with the stranded vessel.

PS176 successfully towed the motor launch to safety, bringing it to Chinese Pier in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.

All 90 passengers were accounted for and reported safe.