ASI Davao Mission and SePUM Volunteers Safe During Earthquake Relief Mission
Margus, Glan, Saranggani Province | Charish Espinosa-Maceda
Jun 12, 2026
SOUTHERN MINDANAO, Philippines — June 12, 2026 — A humanitarian mission organized by the Adventist-laymen's Services and Industries (ASI) and Adventist Professionals (AdPro) of the Southeastern Philippines Union Mission (SePUM) and the Davao Mission, in collaboration with the Southern Mindanao Mission, Hope Channel volunteers, pastors, and mission partners, faced an unexpected challenge when the vessel carrying relief workers and emergency supplies caught fire while in route to earthquake-affected communities in Southern Mindanao.
The team was transporting more than 1,000 food packs and other essential supplies intended for families affected by the recent earthquake. Despite the incident, all 42 volunteers and crew members were safely rescued through God's providence, with no injuries or casualties reported.
According to initial reports, thick smoke was observed coming from the vessel shortly before noon, prompting an immediate evacuation. Local residents and rescue responders assisted in bringing all passengers safely to shore near Margus, Glan, Sarangani Province.
The vessel was bound for Balangonan Port to deliver food, drinking water, and other relief items to affected families in Margus Dako, Sarangani, and Balangonan, Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental. The volunteers were also preparing to continue relief operations on Balut Island the following day.
Although only a small portion of the relief supplies was recovered, church leaders expressed gratitude for God's protection over every volunteer. Church leaders continue to request prayers for the volunteers, relief workers, and affected families as relief efforts move forward and the mission of service continues.