The search for the passengers and crew members of the recreational motorbanca that went missing while navigating the waters of the Davao Gulf on Monday, January 19, 2026, continues, as of this writing.

“We expanded our search area and we also put into consideration the sea condition even the environment conditions. We deployed resources coming from different agencies. We also issued a notice to mariners to at least request those vessels traversing in the area to help us locate and if ever observe some unusual object to render assistance na necessary po,” Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesperson, Capt. Noemie Cayabyab, said.

One of the crew members identified as Christopher Bulig was rescued off the coast of Sarangani, Davao Occidental on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. He was found floating at sea, struggling to stay alive.

The distance between Bulig’s location from the area where the boat capsized is more than 20 kilometers.

“Floating po siya the whole night. Nabanggit po niya during our interview, he felt exhausted, sa buong gabi, nag-float po siya doon sa area na yon, that is the time the following day, we were able to rescue,” PCG Spokesperson, Capt. Noemie Cayabyab, said.

“Ang reported location is Davao Gulf. Nakikita po nating factor dito is yong amihan, yung wind direction is papuntang baba. We concentrated now on our search and rescue efforts,” Cayabyab added.

PCG said Bulig decided to separate from the group when the boat experienced strong currents and strong waves, causing it to capsize.

“Based po doon sa inquiry kahapon sa survivor, naka-experience po itong motorbanca ng strong current, malalakas na alon that resulted the motorbanca to capsize. After mag-capsize, ang individuals na to ay they hold on to the floating debris, they grouped themselves together. Ito pong survivor ay he decided na lumangoy o humiwalay sa grupo na ito, that is the reason na napadpad siya sa bandang Sarangani,” Cayabyab added.

Bulig was brought to Davao City on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, for medical intervention.

Meanwhile, one of the missing passengers was reportedly able to call a family member around 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 18, informing that the boat had capsized near Barangay San Remegio, Talicud, Samal Island, Davao del Norte, until contact was lost.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) clarified that the boat was carrying 16 people – 12 passengers and four crew members – but it has yet to release the official list of passengers.

PCG added that the boat departed at 8 p.m. on January 17.

A reliable source also told GMA Regional TV One Mindanao that the boat had complete documents, but the PCG had not approved its travel clearance.