The Philippine Navy rescued 26 individuals from a sinking boat near Taganak Island, Tawi-Tawi, on Sunday.
The survivors were aboard M/L Bangsata, which sank around 6 a.m. while en route to South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi. The vessel, carrying 32 passengers, had departed Taganak at 1:45 a.m.
According to the Philippine Navy, a Singapore-flagged tanker, EONIA, reported the distressed vessel near Taganak Island. In response, the Navy deployed a rescue vessel, arriving at the scene at 9:05 p.m.
A total of 26 survivors were rescued by the Philippine Navy, while six others were saved by a Malaysian vessel. The rescued passengers received medical assistance, food, and warm clothing. Authorities have also coordinated with the Malaysian vessel to ensure the safe return of the remaining survivors.