- Experts continue to examine two recovered bodies from capsized vessel
(UPDATED)
THE NATIONAL Bureau of Investigation XI forensic team successfully identified four of the six bodies recovered from the sunken vessel MCBA Amejara, as search and identification efforts continue for the remaining victims.
Office of Civil Defense (OCD) XI regional director Ednar Dayanghirang told TIMES on Monday evening, “4 out of 6 [bodies] identified,” when asked about the progress that has been made in identifying the remains recovered from the maritime incident.
While the identification has been processed through forensic examination, Dayanghirang noted that a formal turnover of the remains is pending further verification.
“We are currently waiting for the victim’s sibling to arrive for final confirmation,” Dayanghirang said, referring to the first body identified.
He explained that while the victim’s live-in partner has already come forward, official protocols require a blood relative for the final turnover process.
The identification process remains a high priority for the government as more remains are brought to the city.
Dayanghirang confirmed that a sixth body was recently recovered near Buca Point in Maasim, Sarangani Province.
That body has been transported to a funeral parlor in Davao City and is slated for Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) sampling.
According to the report, DNA analysis is being utilized as the primary tool for identifying the remaining recovered bodies to ensure accuracy before they are released to their respective families.
The sinking of the MCBA Amejara has triggered an intensive multi-agency response, with the OCD, NBI, and local coast guard units working to resolve the status of the remaining missing individuals.
As of this writing no new update yet from the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao on the 8th day of their continued search and rescue operations.
