ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines -- Tawi-tawi Police Director Sr. Supt. Rodelio Jocson confirmed reports that four Indonesians were rescued around the vicinity of Sikulan  Island,  municipality of Sibutu  through joint operation by residents and police elements in the area last Monday .

In an interview, Jocson said the rescue came after the residents of Barangay Tandu Owak, Sikulan Island spotted a peripatetic 10-meter boat routing towards the island.

Jocson said the four Indonesians left Sulawesi last June 22nd en route to Nunukan Island but unsuccessful to reach their destination as they were beaten-up by immense waves and tough winds brought about by storm Falcon. The Indonesians were then drifted at sea as seawater got through a crack in the boat's hull that finally waterlogged the engine room.

The rescued Indonesians identified as as Erwin Wabannuna Salim Huku, Hendrik Pini Sihamuddin, Andi Karal Jerry, and Edy Zulkifli Neliwati Anrizal ,all residents of Nunukan Island, East Kalimantan, Indonesia were sent home upon coordination with the Indonesian boarder patrol authorities, in compliance with the required procedures, as per Philippines -Indonesia  Boarder Patrol Agreement. Prior to that, upon their rescue, the navigators were immediately medically examined to guarantee their good physical state.