A swift response by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) saved the life of a foreign cargo ship crew member who suffered a serious electrocution while his vessel was sailing through the strategic waters of the Basilan Strait.
Swift Maritime Emergency Response
On Tuesday, January 6, 2026, a distress call crackled over the radio. The general cargo ship MV Min Hua 9 reported a medical emergency, requesting urgent evacuation for a crew member who had been electrocuted. The call was received around 10:20 a.m. by the Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao (CGDSWM).
Without delay, CGDSWM mobilized its assets. The patrol vessel BRP Tubbataha was immediately dispatched, carrying a dedicated medical team ready to provide critical aid. The mission was clear: reach the patient as fast as possible.
Successful Medical Evacuation at Sea
The rescue team located the cargo vessel approximately five nautical miles south of the Ensign Majini Pier at Naval Station Romulo Espaldon in Zamboanga. The patient, identified as a 55-year-old male Chinese national, was successfully and safely retrieved from the ship.
Following the retrieval at sea, the Coast Guard's medical team provided initial stabilization. The patient was then quickly transferred to shore. In a coordinated effort, he was turned over to the Bureau of Quarantine and subsequently rushed to the nearest hospital for emergency and further medical treatment.
A Commitment to Saving Lives
The Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao emphasized that this successful operation underscores its unwavering commitment to saving lives at sea and ensuring the safety of maritime transit in the region. The seamless execution from distress call to hospital transfer highlights the PCG's readiness and capability to respond to emergencies in Philippine waters, protecting both domestic and international seafarers.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by maritime workers and the vital role played by the Philippines' coast guard in safeguarding one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.
