(UPDATE) 12 passengers of capsized boats rescued off Tawi-Tawi

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) -  Twelve passengers from three motor boats which capsized Tuesday night were rescued off southern Philippines, a military official said today.

Captain Maria Rowena Muyuela, information officer of the Western Mindanao Command, said the three motor boats carrying a total of 57 passengers capsized off Sibutu Island in Tawi-Tawi province due to bad weather.

Muyuela said bulk carrier MV Savina witnessed the incident and immediately contacted Philippine authorities. The 12 passengers, including four children, were rescued by members of the Philippine Navy.

She said the passengers were on their way to Sabah, Malaysia to sell fish.

Muyuela said operations are still underway to rescue 45 other passengers.