Naval Task Group (NTG) – Sulu on July 24 saved 18 lives in a search and rescue operation between waters off Bakungan Island, Patikul and Tambanan Island, Luuk, all of Sulu.
According to NTG-Sulu and 4th Marine Brigade (4MBDE) Commander Colonel Hernanie Songano, they were able to rescue all 18 passengers of MB “Bongarita”, composed of 12 adults and 6 minors.
“Around 2:10pm, we received a report that there was a boat in distress. I immediately dispatched the Multi-Purpose Assault Craft (MPAC) BA487 to proceed to the said area. Upon arrival at the location MB Bongarita was being towed by a civilian watercraft. However, the responders cannot withstand the strong wind which made the passengers of MB Bongarita transfer to the MPAC for their safety,” Col Songano said.
The MB ‘’Bongarita’’, which came from Brgy. Kanaway, Parang, Sulu, was en route to Malamawi Island, Basilan when it was caught by the strong wind brought by the southwest monsoon affecting the sea state in the area.
All passengers were brought to Luuk District Hospital where they were given initial medical attention. Afterwards, they were brought to 4MBDE headquarters where they were assisted by Parang Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Officer Hji Abdurahman Tungupon. The latter and the rest of the rescued passengers expressed their gratitude to the officers and men of NTGS/4MBDEfor the timely rescue and full assistance accorded to them. After proper documentation, rescued individuals were ferried back to Parang by Army Special Forces military truck.
Joint Task Force Sulu Commander Major General William Gonzales lauded the efforts of units under JTF’s command. “Last week we also rescued passengers from a capsized boat using our Navy’s watercraft. For this, I commend the sailors and the marines for their sustained readiness and dedication to duty that repeatedly saved the lives of our brothers in need,” he said. (PR) -rir
