Coast Guard Rescues 28 Aboard Distressed Banca Off Sarangani Waters
GENERAL SANTOS CITY — The Philippine Coast Guard successfully rescued 28 individuals aboard a motor banca that developed mechanical trouble off the coast of Glan, Sarangani, near the waters of General Santos City, the Coast Guard confirmed on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
The vessel, reportedly carrying 24 passengers and 4 crew members, experienced engine failure while traversing the waters of Sarangani Bay. The distress call prompted the Coast Guard Station in the area to immediately deploy rescue teams to the scene.
According to the Daily Tribune, Coast Guard personnel were able to safely retrieve all 28 individuals from the stranded vessel. Fourteen other crew members of the banca, identified as FB Genesis 2, were initially rescued by nearby fishing boats operating within the vicinity before the Coast Guard arrived.
All rescued individuals were reported to be in good condition and were brought to safety for medical evaluation. No injuries or fatalities were reported in the incident.
The Coast Guard has reminded all vessel operators to ensure proper maintenance and safety checks before embarking on sea voyages, especially during the rainy season when sea conditions can be unpredictable. The agency also urged passengers to verify that their vessels are properly registered and equipped with the necessary safety gear.
The rescue operation highlights the importance of maritime safety protocols in the General Santos-Sarangani area, a region known for its fishing industry and coastal communities that rely heavily on sea transportation for livelihood and daily travel.
Authorities continue to monitor sea conditions in the area as aftershocks from the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao on June 8 continue to affect parts of southern Philippines.