COMMODORE Philipps Soria, commander of Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao, confirmed to TIMES on Wednesday evening that the search and rescue (SAR) operations are now concentrated south to southwest of Sarangani.
Using the SAROPS (Search and Rescue Optimal Planning System) application, the Coast Guard is projecting the movement of the 15 missing individuals based on real-time tide, wind, and current effects.
“Our SAR operations are ongoing. We are concentrating our efforts along the south to southwest of Sarangani,” Soria said.
Despite the intensified efforts, Soria reported that no additional survivors have been found as of Wednesday night.
He confirmed that the motorbanca had a total of 16 people on board; one has been rescued, leaving 15 still missing.
Philippine Coast Guard vessels continue to scour the area, with the help of the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Air Force, particularly the Tactical Operations Wing Eastern Mindanao.
“Our ships are still out there, with Philippine Navy vessels also assisting in the operations,” Soria added.
Christopher Bulig, the survivor found near Sarangani Island, was airlifted by the Tactical Operations Wing Eastern Mindanao of the Philippine Air Force aboard a Black Hawk S-70i helicopter on Jan. 21, 2026, to Davao City.
Upon arrival, Bulig was received and comforted by TOWEASTMIN Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Romeo Jerome M. Dirilo, before being brought to Camp Panacan Hospital at Naval Station Felix Apolinario for further medical assessment.
Photo from Coast Guard District-SEM
