What happened
During an approach toward Zamboanga City Airport, the flight encountered worsening meteorological conditions. In response to the deteriorating weather, air traffic control directed the crew to alter their course and divert to Davao City, which was situated approximately 400 km east of their current coordinates.
As the aircraft proceeded with the modified flight plan over the Moro Gulf, both engines ceased operation. In an attempt to manage the emergency, the pilot decreased the aircraft's altitude. The aircraft type was forced to ditch in the sea at a location roughly 40 km from Cotabato City.
Following the impact with the water, all 31 occupants were successfully recovered by rescue teams. However, the airframe subsequently sank and remains lost.
Findings
Investigations into the dual engine failure concluded that the incident was caused by fuel exhaustion.