Manila, Jan. 22 -- The Philippine Navy (PN) on Thursday announced that naval and air units from its Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) have joined the search for the missing motorbanca, MBCA Amejara, which was reported missing in Davao waters along with 12 crew members and passengers early this week.

It added that NFEM immediately deployed landing craft BRP Tagbanua (LC-296), offshore patrol vessel BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS-37), and BA-491 of the 3rd Boat Attack Division to conduct surface search operations after receiving word about the incident.

Initial reports said the motorbanca was reported missing last Jan. 19.

"Naval Special Warfare Unit 7 was also deployed to support the search efforts, while a Beechcraft King Air C90 (NV-392) ...