68 passengers, crew rescued from distressed motor launch off Basilan

At least 57 passengers and 11 crew members were rescued from a distressed motor launch off Panducan Point, Basilan on Wednesday, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

The PCG said it deployed Coast Guard-manned BFAR vessel, MCS-3007, and the Coast Guard Station Zamboanga to conduct search and rescue operations.

The Coast Guard, citing the crew, said the distressed motor launch “ML SULNA” encountered engine trouble while on its way from Zamboanga City to Taganak, Tawi-Tawi.

No passengers and crew members were injured due to the incident, the PCG said.

The search and rescue team towed the distressed vessel to Zamboanga City Port.—Richa Noriega/AOL, GMA Integrated News