Vessel develops engine trouble off Sulu; 16 rescued

MANILA, Philippines — Sixteen people were rescued after a motor launch developed engine trouble while sailing in the waters off Sulu on Wednesday.

Among those rescued were 11 crewmembers and five passengers of the M/L Niesah, which drifted near Capual Island in Omar town, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

The boat was headed to Zamboanga City from Jolo when its propeller struck a pile of floating debris.

The PCG-Station Eastern Sulu dispatched a rescue team, which found the vessel near the coast of Panamao.

The PCG towed the Niesah toward the port of Alayon in the municipality of Luuk. All crewmembers and passengers were found to be in good physical condition.