In a commendable display of maritime rescue, the Philippine Navy’s BRP Jose Loor Sr. saved 121 individuals from a stranded wooden-hulled vessel off the coast of Tawi-Tawi. The vessel, M/L J Sayang 1, was discovered 5.4 nautical miles west of Siklangkalong Island, Panglima Sugala, after being adrift for nearly six days due to engine failure and harsh weather conditions.
The vessel, which was carrying 106 passengers and 15 crew members, had initially set sail from Zamboanga City towards Turtle Islands, Tawi-Tawi. It encountered engine trouble near Pangutaran, Sulu, and despite temporary repairs, it suffered further mechanical issues, leaving it without fuel or communication.
Local fishermen near Pearl Bank, Languyan, Tawi-Tawi, first spotted the stranded vessel, triggering a swift and coordinated rescue operation by the Philippine Navy and other maritime agencies. Upon arrival, the crew of BRP Jose Loor Sr. provided essential supplies including fresh water, food, medical aid, and internet access, enabling passengers to reach out to their families.
Despite challenging weather conditions and the risk of collision, the Navy managed to tow the vessel safely to Taja Island, Pearl Bank, Tawi-Tawi. All aboard were reported to be in good physical health, though understandably distressed from days of limited resources.
A relief vessel, M/L Arneza, later arrived with additional fuel and provisions, ready to tow M/L J Sayang 1 to its intended destination in Turtle Islands, Tawi-Tawi. Rear Adm. Francisco Tagamolila Jr., commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, praised the collaborative efforts of local authorities, the Navy, and the Coast Guard, highlighting the critical role of unified action in maritime emergencies.