By I. Inojales | 09:05 AM November 05, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — Nineteen passengers aboard a motorbanca that departed from Jagoliao Island in Getafe, Bohol, were rescued after the vessel sank off Punta Engaño Port in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, early Tuesday morning, November 3.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the motorbanca, which was carrying passengers from Bohol bound for Pasil, Cebu City, sank about 700 meters from Punta Engaño Port at around 4:12 a.m.
The vessel left Jagoliao Island at around 2:30 a.m. but encountered engine trouble while at sea. Seawater reportedly entered the motorbanca, eventually causing it to sink.
Crew members of MV Edgel Ferry Express V rescued all 19 passengers and brought them to Hilton Wharf in Punta Engaño.
Among those rescued were three children, one senior citizen and 15 adults from Cebu City and Mandaue City.
The Lapu-Lapu City Rescue Team conducted medical assessments and provided them with food and other necessities while arrangements were being made for their transportation home.
During the PCG investigation, motorbanca captain Florencio Ybañez, 57, confirmed that they had departed from Jagoliao Island in Getafe, Bohol, and were heading to Pasil when the incident occurred.
