Basilan-Bound Fast Craft Encounters Trouble.-Photo: Richard falcatan
ISABELA CITY, BASILAN (October 23) — A routine trip from Zamboanga City to Isabela City turned into a tense experience on Thursday morning, October 23, 2025,when a Basilan-bound fast craft encountered a mechanical malfunction near Malamawi Island.
Initial reports said the vessel was unable to proceed directly to Isabela port due to the issue, forcing it to circle in open waters while awaiting assistance. Passengers were instructed to remain onboard as a precautionary measure to avoid potential risks while the vessel was still adrift.
Within minutes,local fishermen and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel responded to distress calls, launching a swift rescue operation. Passengers were carefully transferred one by one from the malfunctioning vessel onto rescue boats, which then ferried them safely to Isabela Port.
A passenger on a social media posted “There is no rescue operations happened. We, the passengers initiated to call nearby bangkeros and ride to Bangkeros Port and paid for their service. Thanks to the Bangkeros.”
Authorities confirmed that no injuries or fatalities occurred during the incident. The fast craft company has since assured the public that the vessel is undergoing immediate repairs and a full inspection to ensure its seaworthiness before resuming operations.
Several passengers described the situation as frightening, recounting how the vessel appeared to drift aimlessly before help arrived. Despite the initial panic, they expressed gratitude for the quick and coordinated response of both fishermen and Coast Guard rescuers.
The Philippine Coast Guard–Basilan Station has launched an investigation into the cause of the mechanical failure to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This latest incident highlights the importance of strict maritime safety checks for passenger vessels operating between Zamboanga and Basilan, one of the busiest sea routes in Western Mindanao.
