At least 12 people were rescued from a distressed vessel off Mangalis, Indanan, Sulu.

According to the Coast Guard Station (CGS) Western Sulu, the watercraft was carrying five passengers, seven crew members, and around 1,600 sacks of cement and other construction materials.

The vessel reportedly encountered engine trouble and transmission malfunction while heading to Sapa-Sapa, Tawi-Tawi from Zamboanga City.

CGS Western Sulu immediately launched a search and rescue operation and located the distressed vessel approximately 1.7 nautical miles off Mangalis, Indanan.

The 12 people on board the vessel were rescued safely.

“This successful collaboration highlighted the unwavering commitment and professionalism of the officers and men of Coast Guard Station Western Sulu and its supporting units, in ensuring the safety and welfare of lives and properties at sea,” CGS Western Sulu said.