The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) initiated a search-and-rescue operation for M/BCA God’s Grace 9, two nautical miles west of Ambil Island, Looc, Occidental Mindoro, on December 9.
The Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Lubang initiated the operation after receiving distress information from the motorbanca owner.
The SAR team located the distressed motorbanca and rescued 11 crew on board, including the captain, who were all in good physical condition.
Based on the initial investigation, MBCA God’s Grace 9 departed from the Port of Lubang going to the Port of Calatagan in Batangas when it encountered huge waves.
A floating object also struck and damaged the starboard side of the vessel. The crew attempted to patch the damage with rags and plywood. However, the impact and subsequent flooding rendered the vessel half-submerged.