MANILA, Philippines — Fourteen individuals were rescued after their motorbanca partially submerged off the coast of Panglao, Bohol, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported late Tuesday.

According to the PCG, the MBCA Ayoshi Kim Rin 8 was navigating between Balicasag Island and Panglao on Sunday, February 24, when it experienced engine failure. 

The vessel became uncontrollable, and strong waves and currents further damaged the boat, causing it to partially sink.

Upon receiving the distress call, the Coast Guard Sub-Station Balicasag immediately dispatched a rescue team. 

The 12 passengers, along with the boat captain and a crew member, were safely transferred to another vessel, MBCA Nika and Niah Naj.

Rescuers then towed the half-submerged motorbanca to the Panglao coastline.

All individuals were found to be in good physical condition and were turned over to the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) in Panglao for further assistance.

The PCG has yet to determine if additional safety measures will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the area.