The US Maritime Administration (MARAD) has issued warning concerning the US-flag vessels which transit the Sulu and Celebes Seas. In light of recent boardings and kidnappings for ransom in that area, ship operators are advised to remain vigilant and adhere to counter-piracy measures when transiting the area.
As US MARAD explains, over the past 12 months, there have been at least 14 reported kidnappings and one murder, of which at least ten incidents were reportedly linked to Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), a violent Islamic separatist group operating in the southern Philippines.
Previously, only towing and fishing vessels were targeted and crewmembers kidnapped. However, since October 2016, ASG has reportedly targeted three large commercial vessels and one yacht. In November 2016 ASG boarded a German yacht and killed one crewmember, and in February 2017 killed the remaining crewmember after a ransom demand was not met. Thus far, no U.S. vessels have been involved in these incidents.
Further details, as well as contact information, may be found here.