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Navy Rescues Adrift Filipino Fishermen in South China Sea

1/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Navy's ship USNS Cesar Chavez rescued three Filipino fishermen in the South China Sea after their vessel was disabled by heavy seas.
The fishermen had been adrift since December 28, surviving on limited food and water.
The rescue occurred on January 1, 2026, according to the U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet.
The United States coordinated with Philippine officials for the fishermen's return.

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Story summary

The U.S. Navy's ship USNS Cesar Chavez rescued three Filipino fishermen in the South China Sea after their vessel was disabled by heavy seas.
The fishermen had been adrift since December 28, surviving on limited food and water.
The rescue occurred on January 1, 2026, according to the U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet.
The United States coordinated with Philippine officials for the fishermen's return.