Latest news with #WesternMindanaoNavalCommand
GMA Network
21-07-2025
- General
- GMA Network
4 rescued from capsized boat off Tawi-Tawi
Four people were rescued from a motorized banca that capsized off Pababag Island in Tawi-Tawi. Personnel of the Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC) sighted the distressed boat east of Lamion Wharf during routine patrol. The passengers of the boat were seen signaling for help frantically as they struggled in the water. Despite rough sea conditions, WMNC personnel rescued the four individuals. The four are now in stable condition. The four told authorities they were heading to Simunul Island when they encountered strong waves, causing their boat to capsize. They were turned over to the Naval Intelligence and Security Unit personnel for profiling and assistance. 'This successful rescue mission reinforces the Philippine Navy's operational posture in the southern maritime frontier—a core mandate of WMNC and JTF Poseidon under the Armed Forces of the Philippines' Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC). It highlights not only the command's vigilance but also its capability to swiftly respond to emergencies across critical sea lanes in the Sulu and Celebes Seas,' WMNC said.
GMA Network
17-07-2025
- GMA Network
P11M alleged smuggled cigarettes seized off Basilan
The Philippine Navy seized alleged smuggled cigarettes worth nearly P11.5 million in Basilan. Personnel of the Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC) intercepted a motorized banca allegedly transporting undocumented cigarettes approximately 30 nautical miles southeast of Kauluan Island in Basilan. WMNC said the vessel had four crew members on board and loaded with around 194 master cases of cigarettes. Authorities said the cargo was believed to be heading to Malangas, Zamboanga Sibugay from Jolo, Sulu. The items confiscated and the crew members were turned over to law enforcement units for investigation. The vessel, on the other hand, was towed due to engine trouble and brought to the Naval Station Romulo Espaldon in Zamboanga City. 'This operation highlights WMNC's continued commitment to the Armed Forces of the Philippines' Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC) and its support for maritime law enforcement efforts in partnership with other agencies to combat smuggling and transnational crimes within the Philippine maritime domain,' WMNC said. (With reports from Efren Mamac, GMA Regional TV One Mindanao)
GMA Network
14-07-2025
- GMA Network
P16M alleged smuggled cigarettes seized in Sultan Kudarat
Authorities seized alleged smuggled cigarettes worth around P16 million in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat. Personnel of the Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC) intercepted a motorized fishing vessel carrying undocumented tobacco products during a maritime law enforcement operation approximately 40.23 nautical miles northwest of Nara Point, Kalamansig. The boat has five crew members on board. Seized during the operation were up to 280 master cases of tobacco products. 'A joint inspection yielded 280 master cases of tobacco products onboard, suspected of violating Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act), relevant Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) regulations, and provisions under Executive Order No. 245 issued by the National Tobacco Administration,' WMNC said. The crew members arrested were released later while the confiscated items were turned over to the Bureau of Customs. 'This successful interdiction underscores the Western Mindanao Naval Command's steadfast commitment to upholding maritime law, protecting national economic interests, and supporting government initiatives against smuggling within the country's maritime domain,' WMNC added.
