Inp.polri.go.id - Palu. Immigration authorities in Palu are preparing the repatriation of 15 Filipino citizens rescued by local fishermen after being stranded in Buol waters, Central Sulawesi, for 13 days. 

The group, which includes eight children, was discovered on Thursday approximately 72 miles offshore after their vessel suffered engine failure while traveling from Sabah, Malaysia, to the Philippines.

"Following coordination with the Philippine Consulate in Manado, we will immediately return them to their home country," said Muhammad Akmal, the Head of the Palu Immigration Office, on Friday (23/1/2024), as cited by antaranews.com

The Buol Police facilitated the initial rescue, transporting the exhausted survivors to Mokoyorli Hospital for urgent medical examinations. Verification processes are currently underway, with consulate officials conducting interviews to confirm citizenship status before formal deportation. 

Local police, the Indonesian Navy, and disaster agencies have secured the group in temporary housing, ensuring their welfare until the Philippine government finalizes travel documentation for their safe return.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)