PALAWAN, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) successfully conducted a rescue operation for a motorbanca that suffered mechanical failure near Big Lagoon, El Nido, Palawan on December 28, 2025.

At around 5:56 p.m., the MBCA Aquaholic reported that its engine had malfunctioned, leaving the vessel stranded in the water. The boat captain explained that a gear issue rendered the engine inoperative, leaving the six passengers on board unable to navigate back to shore.

Within an hour, at approximately 6:55 p.m., PCG units located the motorbanca and safely escorted it to Telesfura, El Nido. Thankfully, all six passengers were unharmed, and no additional incidents were reported during the operation.

This incident highlights the critical role of the PCG in ensuring the safety of maritime travel, especially in popular tourist areas like El Nido, where small boats frequently transport visitors to remote lagoons and islands. Quick response times, coordinated search procedures, and clear communication between vessel operators and authorities proved essential in preventing a potential maritime emergency from escalating.

Beyond the immediate rescue, the situation raises the broader issue of maritime preparedness. Vessel owners and operators are reminded of the importance of regular maintenance checks, proper safety equipment, and contingency planning. Even seemingly minor mechanical issues can quickly become life-threatening when far from shore. The safe resolution of this incident serves as a reminder that proactive safety measures, coupled with capable and responsive authorities, are crucial to protecting both residents and tourists navigating the waterways of Palawan. (Larawan: CG / Facebook)