Navy rescues 121 passengers, crew from disabled ship off Tawi-Tawi
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Navy on Wednesday rescued 106 passengers and 15 crew members of ML J Sayang 1, after being stranded in the waters off Tawi-Tawi province for six days.
The vessel was reported missing on Jan. 8 after it lost fuel and communication capabilities due to engine trouble near Pangutaran Island.
It was en route from Zamboanga City to Turtle Islands, Tawi-Tawi.
Local fishermen later spotted the ship adrift and alerted authorities.
The Naval Forces Western Mindanao, in a Facebook post on Wednesday, said the Navy located the ship 5.4 nautical miles (10 kilometers) west of Siklangkalong Island, Tawi-Tawi at 12 noon on Jan. 14.
Rescuers aboard the BRP Jose Loor Sr. gave food, fresh water and medical aid to the 121 passengers and crew aboard the ML J Sayang 1.
Further, they were given internet access to contact their families.
The distressed vessel was towed safely to Taja Island in the Pearl Bank then again to its destination Turtle Islands, with assistance from relief vessel ML Arneza, by 5 p.m. on Wednesday.
“This successful rescue highlights the Philippine Navy’s dedication to maritime safety and security,” Naval Forces Western Mindanao said in its Facebook post.
“The cooperation among local authorities, the Philippine Navy, and the Philippine Coast Guard demonstrates the importance of unified efforts in responding to maritime emergencies,” it added.
