Authorities rescued 26 people from a boat that capsized near Taganak Island in Tawi-Tawi evening on Sunday, March 16, 2025.

Personnel of the Philippine Navy launched a rescue mission after receiving information about the distressed vessel.

The boat was traced to its location at past 9 p.m. and survivors were found clinging to debris and wreckage.

All survivors were brought on board safely and were given medical assistance, including food and warm clothing. They were turned over to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Taganak for further medical attention.

Meanwhile, six other passengers were reportedly rescued by a Malaysian vessel and authorities have already coordinated for their safe return.

Citing accounts of survivors, the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) said the boat left Taganak around 1:45 a.m., carrying 32 people, bound for South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi.

The vessel encountered rough seas and began to sink around 6 a.m., leaving the passengers adrift at sea for several hours until they were rescued.

“The Philippine Navy remains steadfast in ensuring maritime safety and urges coastal communities and seafarers to exercise caution during adverse sea conditions,” the NFWM said.