The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has officially concluded its active search and retrieval operations for the missing motorbanca MBCA Amejara, marking the end of a challenging month-long mission in the Davao Gulf and surrounding waters. The vessel, which disappeared on January 19, 2026, while traveling from Sta. Ana Wharf in Davao City to Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental, was lost amid adverse sea conditions, prompting an immediate and extensive response from authorities.
Intensive Search Efforts Yield Mixed Results
Throughout the operation, search teams deployed sea and air assets across projected drift paths, guided by weather and oceanographic assessments. On February 3, the focus shifted from search and rescue to search and retrieval, as hopes for survival dwindled more than two weeks after the disappearance. The efforts extended beyond Mindanao waters toward nearby maritime boundaries, resulting in the rescue of one survivor early on. Tragically, six individuals were later confirmed deceased, while nine remain missing as of the operation's conclusion.
Formal Announcement and Coordination Details
Commodore Philipps Soria, Commander of the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM), formally announced the termination of operations effective February 18. He detailed that the mission involved fifteen days of intensified search and rescue followed by fifteen days of extended search and retrieval. "After a month-long duration, CDSEM led, sustained, and coordinated operations with fifteen (15) days of intensified Search and Rescue efforts, following (15) days of extended Search and Retrieval Operations," Soria stated during a press conference with Davao media.
The operation was a collaborative effort, closely coordinated with the Office of Civil Defense and supported by multiple agencies, including:
- Armed Forces of the Philippines units in Eastern Mindanao
- Philippine National Police Maritime Group
- Department of Social Welfare and Development
- Department of Health
- National Bureau of Investigation
- Department of the Interior and Local Government
- Local government units and volunteers
Ongoing Investigation and Future Preparedness
Soria expressed gratitude to all agencies and personnel involved, praising their dedication and professionalism. He also extended heartfelt sympathies to the families of the missing, acknowledging their ongoing pain and uncertainty. Despite the end of active operations, the investigation into the incident continues, with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) monitoring developments closely.
CGDSEM has assured the public that it will remain vigilant, ready to review and respond to any verified information or recovered items linked to M/B AMEJARA if necessary. The maritime agency reiterated its call for strict adherence to maritime laws and safety regulations, emphasizing the importance of proper voyage planning and monitoring official weather advisories to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
