(Photo courtesy of CGSS-Panglima Sugala)
ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) rescued 37 people aboard a wooden-hulled vessel that encountered engine trouble off Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi, on Monday afternoon.
In a statement Tuesday, the Coast Guard Station-Central Tawi-Tawi said personnel from the Coast Guard Sub-Station-Panglima Sugala immediately responded after receiving a distress call from M/L Alim.
“The CGSS-Panglima Sugala personnel reached the distressed vessel and assisted the 37 people on board, including 10 crew members,” the PCG said.
Initial findings showed that the vessel experienced engine problems while traveling from the island municipality of Tandubas to Bongao, the capital of Tawi-Tawi.
Tandubas is located approximately 39 miles from Bongao.
Coast Guard personnel successfully towed the distressed vessel to the Port of Bongao, where it arrived safely early Monday evening with all 37 people on board.
Following the incident, the PCG reminded vessel operators and crew members to conduct regular engine inspections, ensure the seaworthiness of their vessels, and comply with maritime safety regulations before departure.
Meanwhile, the Coast Guard has intensified vessel inspections nationwide as part of its preparations for the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
The agency is set to deploy approximately 17,000 personnel across the country to strengthen maritime security and passenger assistance from October 29 to November 3.
Authorities anticipate between 1.5 million and 2 million sea passengers during the Undas travel period.
The PCG said the heightened safety measures aim to prevent maritime accidents and ensure the safe travel of passengers returning to their home provinces for the holiday observance.
