Basilan: Authorities have safely rescued 20 fishermen two hours after they received a distress call from a fishing vessel off Basilan, the police said Monday. Major Geobani Calle, chief of the Basilan Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA), confirmed that the fishermen, all crew members of FB Mona, were rescued around 7:25 a.m. Monday in the waters between Tamok Island, Basilan, and Duay Bulod Island, Sulu.

According to Philippines News Agency, the distress call was made by FB Mona's skipper, Muhammad Javer, prompting a swift response from a search and rescue team. The team was assembled immediately after receiving the call and launched a rescue operation. The investigation revealed that the fishing boat sank after being battered by strong winds and large waves during a fishing venture.

Calle reported that the search and rescue team included personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Maluso sub-station and local fishermen. He confirmed that Javer and his crew were rescued without any injuries. The rescue team successfully managed to tow the fishing vessel to Teheem Island, Maluso, for safety and inspection.

The successful rescue operation was attributed to the fast coordination between Basilan MARPSTA, PCG, and local fishermen. Meanwhile, Calle advised fishermen and other concerned individuals to check weather updates from the state weather bureau before embarking on fishing ventures or sailing.