Davao City (MindaNews / 20 January) — The Coast Guard successfully rescued a crew member of the MBCA Amejara at 10:46 a.m. on Tuesday, following reports of the vessel missing since Monday. The boat was carrying 11 passengers and four crew members and was last seen in the waters off Sarangani municipality, Davao Occidental. The vessel departed Santa Ana Wharf in Davao City on January 17, intended for Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental, with an expected arrival on January 19.
The rescued crew member, identified as Christopher Bulig, was located during search operations in the Davao Gulf. He received immediate medical assistance and was transported for further care. The Coast Guard has mobilized 14 floating assets and one aircraft to continue the search for the remaining missing individuals, including the boat master and several passengers.
Authorities revealed that the motorboat had set sail without clearance from the Philippine Coast Guard, which prohibited it from venturing into the sea. A notice was issued to mariners to remain vigilant in the Davao Gulf, particularly near areas such as Malita and Balut Island, urging them to assist if the missing vessel is spotted.
The Police Regional Maritime Unit 11 reported that the MBCA Amejara last communicated with officials at 4:35 p.m. while navigating between Jose Abad Santos and Sarangani Province. Initial search efforts commenced at 5 p.m. on Monday but were temporarily halted due to adverse weather conditions. Rescuers agreed to resume operations the following day with additional resources.
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