Australian rescued off Sta. Cruz Island, Zamboanga City

An Australian national was rescued from a distressed yacht off Sta. Cruz Island in Zamboanga City on Monday evening, the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) said on Wednesday.

In an incident report, the NFWM said its multi-purpose Attack Craft BA487 responded to assist a yacht reportedly drifting in the vicinity of Basilan.

Initial investigation showed that Malcolm MacIntyre departed on his yacht from the port of Dampier, Western Australia on August 4 to visit his family in Talaytay, Cebu City.

However, Maclntyre encountered bad weather, causing his yacht to drift off Coco Island in Akbar, Basilan away from his intended route.

The situation was worsened as the yacht’s outboard motor ran low on fuel and encountered engine failure.

He then tried to repair the engine but failed to do so. This prompted the Australian to send out a distress signal which led to the rescue.

After scouring the reported site of the vessel and nearby islands, personnel of NFWM spotted the yacht near Sta. Cruz Island.

“Mr. MacIntyre was brought to Camp Navarro General Hospital where he underwent medical check-up, and was later fed,” NFWM said.

“Currently, Mr. MacIntyre is undergoing an interview by local immigration officials.  If all goes well, he shall be allowed to continue his voyage to Cebu as soon as his yacht is restored in good condition,” it added. — Mel Matthew Doctor/BM, GMA News