DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 21 January) – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) remains hopeful of finding more survivors from the sunken MBCA Amejara as search and rescue operations continue for 11 passengers and three crew members.
Capt. Noemie Cayabyab, PCG spokesperson, stated that rescued crew member Christopher Bulig reported seeing other survivors clinging to floating debris after the vessel capsized due to strong winds and waves. Some passengers attempted to contact relatives while awaiting rescue.
The boat, which departed Santa Ana Wharf in Davao City on January 17 bound for Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental, was reported missing on January 19 after last being sighted near Sarangani, Davao Occidental.
Bulig, found drifting between Sarangani and Jose Abad Santos, recounted that he swam alone toward shore but was exhausted by strong currents. Aerial and surface searches are ongoing despite rough sea conditions, with 24 floating assets and a Philippine Air Force helicopter deployed.
The PCG noted that the vessel lacked proper permits from the Maritime Industry Authority, a matter to be investigated later. For now, the focus remains on rescue efforts. (Antonio L. Colina IV/MindaNews)
