At least 16 people were rescued after the pump boat they were riding capsized in the waters off Barangay Lukbuton, Malamawi, Isabela City, Basilan.

According to the Philippine National Police (PNP)-Maritime Group, a concerned citizen informed authorities that the boat capsized dawn on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

Based on investigation, the boat was heading to Luuk, Sulu from Zamboanga City when the engine reportedly malfunctioned, causing the boat to capsize.

Personnel of the Regional Maritime Unit-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (RMU-BAR) responded and rescued 16 individuals – 15 men and one woman - safely.

One passenger lost consciousness and was rushed to a hospital for medical attention.

Authorities have recovered the boat, personal belongings of passengers, among others.

“Ang aming maagap na pagtugon sa mga nangangailangan ng saklolo ay malinaw na patunay ng kahandaan at hindi matitinag na panata ng PNP Maritime Group sa pagsagip ng buhay sa karagatan,” PNP Maritime Group Director, Brigadier General Lou Evangelista, said.