THE COAST Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) has deployed its Islander 251 fixed-wing aircraft to lead an extensive aerial search and rescue (SAR) operation for the missing motorbanca MBCA Amejara.
The Islander 251 is considered a critical asset in maritime SAR due to its stability and long-endurance capabilities, allowing crews to conduct effective visual searches over vast areas of the Davao Gulf and Sarangani waters for extended periods.
Equipped with a twin-engine configuration for enhanced safety during over-water missions, the aircraft’s high-wing design provides observers with superior downward visibility.
This feature is vital for detecting survivors, floating debris, or the vessel itself in the open sea.
The deployment highlights the CGDSEM’s commitment to utilizing specialized aerial assets to bolster life-saving operations.
As of today, the search for the 15 missing individuals continues in coordination with naval and air force units.
