INTERNATIONAL search and rescue operations have been launched after a passenger from a distressed motorboat originating from Southeastern Mindanao was recovered alive on a remote Indonesian island on Sunday, May 31.
Four other companions remain missing at sea.
The survivor, identified as alias Jeboy, was discovered by a local fisherman around 4 a.m. stranded on Kamboreng Island in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, according to the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) from its Indonesian counterparts.
Local residents immediately transferred Jeoby to nearby Kawio Island to undergo an initial medical assessment and receive care.
Reports state that while he is suffering from physical exhaustion and psychological distress, he remains stable.
Jeboy confirmed to authorities that a total of five individuals were on board the motor vessel MBCA Quessel-J when it encountered an unspecified maritime emergency. The identities and status of the remaining four crew members are still unknown.
Following Jeboy’s rescue, Indonesian locals and maritime authorities launched an immediate sweep of the surrounding waters. Between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. local time, search teams located the MBCA Quessel-J.
The vessel sustained significant damage to its port side and was found partially flooded before responders towed it ashore to Kawio Island.
In Davao City, CGDSEM officials stated they have established a constant, real-time communications link with Indonesian maritime authorities for data sharing and case validation.
Simultaneously, the CGDSEM is leading joint search and rescue (SAR) operations closer to home, pooling assets alongside local government units, national agencies, and partner maritime law enforcement bodies to search the cross-border transit corridors.
“The CGDSEM remains committed to exhausting all available means and maintaining close interagency and international coordination to support the ongoing SAR mission and ensure the safe recovery of the remaining missing passengers,” the district command said in its official statement.
The waters between the Davao Region, Sarangani, and North Sulawesi represent a highly active maritime border area, frequently utilized by local fishermen and small commercial vessels, where weather conditions can rapidly deteriorate.
