MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) has officially concluded its 15-day search and rescue operations for the capsized MBCA Amejara, declaring no further chance of survival.
Despite extensive surface, shoreline, and aerial searches across the Davao Region and into the Indonesia Area of Responsibility, authorities confirmed only one survivor, six recovered bodies, and floating debris including life jackets and life rings marked with Amejara’s name.
“Based on all available information and prevailing conditions, the probability of further survival was determined to be no longer feasible; thus, SAR operations were formally concluded,” the CGDSEM said in a statement, adding that operations have now shifted to retrieval efforts effective February 4, 2026.
The Coast Guard expressed gratitude to agencies, volunteers, and stakeholders for their support, and thanked the families of victims for their patience and understanding. It assured that recovery efforts will continue “with the highest levels of professionalism, respect, and dignity.”
The MBCA Amejara was reported to have capsized in Davao Gulf on January 19. #END
NEWS SOURCE: MANILA BULLETIN
Photo credit to owner