The Philippine Navy helped bring home the survivor of a submerged motor banca off Davao Occidental after he was found near Indonesian waters.
Through the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao’s Naval Task Force 71 and BRP Artemio Ricarte, the Navy facilitated the turnover and repatriation of Jeboy Masalta, the operator of MBCA Quessel J, on June 3, 2026 in the waters south of Balut Island, Davao Occidental.
Masalta was earlier located near Palau Kawio Island in North Sulawesi, Indonesia, days after MBCA Quessel J figured in a maritime incident off Davao Occidental on May 28.
Following his location, Philippine authorities coordinated with the Indonesian Navy and other concerned agencies to arrange his recovery and safe return to the country.
On June 3, BRP Artemio Ricarte received Masalta and his wife from FB Almira near the Philippine-Indonesian International Maritime Boundary Line.
The couple were given medical attention and food provisions before they were transported to Balut Island for formal turnover to local authorities.
The Navy said search and rescue operations are still ongoing for four other passengers of MBCA Quessel J who remain missing.