Davao city: The Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) announced on Wednesday the termination of the search and rescue (SAR) and retrieval operations for the missing motor banca MBCA Amejara. MBCA Amejara was reported missing on Jan. 19 in the Davao Gulf after departing from Sta. Ana Wharf in Davao City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Commodore Philipps Soria, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Southeastern Mindanao commander, reported that after 15 days of intensified SAR operations and an additional 15 days of extended search and retrieval efforts, they rescued one survivor. Soria said six bodies presumed to be from the recreational boat have been recovered, while nine individuals remain missing.

'Throughout this period, all available surface, aerial, and coastal monitoring assets were deployed across designated search areas, including projected drift paths determined through prevailing weather conditions and oceanographic assessments,' he said. Soria said operations were conducted in close coordination with various agencies, local government units, volunteers, and maritime stakeholders.

'Following comprehensive assessment and upon completion of all planned and extended search efforts, CGDSEM officially concluded active operations on Feb. 18, 2026,' he added. Although active search efforts have ended, Soria assured the public that any verified information, credible reports, or recovered materials related to the missing motorboat will still be received, assessed, and acted upon.

'To the families and loved ones of those who remain missing, CGDSEM conveys its deepest sympathies and unwavering solidarity. We acknowledge the profound pain and uncertainty brought by this tragedy,' Soria said. He reiterated the PCG's call for vessel operators and the maritime community to prioritize safety by strictly following maritime laws, safety regulations, voyage planning, and monitoring weather advisories.