I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic accident in Labuan Bajo that claimed the lives of Valencia coach Fernando Martin and his three children. My heart goes out to their family during this incredibly difficult time. Wishing strength and courage to his wife and daughter who survived this unimaginable loss. My deepest sympathies are with them.

On Friday, December 26, 2025, a tourist boat named KM Putri Sakinah capsized in the waters near Padar Island, Komodo National Park, East Nusa Tenggara. The vessel reportedly suffered engine failure before being struck by high waves caused by extreme weather conditions.

Fernando Martin, the 44-year-old coach of the Valencia CF Femenino B team (Valencia's women's reserve team), and his three children (aged 12, 10, and 9) tragically lost their lives in the accident. Martin’s wife, Andrea Ortuno, and their 7-year-old daughter survived the incident. Additionally, four crew members and one tour guide were rescued safely.

​I never had the privilege of shaking Fernando Martin’s hand, nor did I ever watch him coach his team from the sidelines. I did not know him personally. However, as a resident of Labuan Bajo—the beautiful but sometimes unpredictable place where he spent his final moments—I feel a profound duty to honor his memory.

​Fernando came to our waters seeking adventure and joy with his family. He arrived as a guest, and in our hearts, a guest is always treated with the deepest care. It breaks my heart that our town, which usually offers wonder and memories of a lifetime, became the backdrop for such a devastating tragedy for his family.

​To the world, Fernando was known as the dedicated coach of Valencia CF Femenino B, a mentor who guided young athletes with passion. But above all, he was a father. The tragedy of losing him alongside his three beloved children is a weight that is felt not just in Spain, but here on the shores of Flores as well.

​The sea connects us all, but it can be unforgiving. While we, the people of Labuan Bajo, cannot undo the waves or the wind, we can offer our collective silence and respect.

​To his wife, Andrea, and their surviving daughter: please know that even though you are far from home, you are not grieving alone. The community of Labuan Bajo mourns with you. We are strangers to you, but we share in your sorrow.

​May the memories of Fernando and his children be a source of strength. They will forever remain a part of our ocean's memory.

I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic accident in Labuan Bajo that claimed the lives of Valencia coach Fernando Martin and his three children. My heart goes out to their family during this incredibly difficult time. Wishing strength and courage to his wife and daughter who survived this unimaginable loss. My deepest sympathies are with them.

On Friday, December 26, 2025, a tourist boat named KM Putri Sakinah capsized in the waters near Padar Island, Komodo National Park, East Nusa Tenggara. The vessel reportedly suffered engine failure before being struck by high waves caused by extreme weather conditions.

Fernando Martin, the 44-year-old coach of the Valencia CF Femenino B team (Valencia's women's reserve team), and his three children (aged 12, 10, and 9) tragically lost their lives in the accident. Martin’s wife, Andrea Ortuno, and their 7-year-old daughter survived the incident. Additionally, four crew members and one tour guide were rescued safely.

​I never had the privilege of shaking Fernando Martin’s hand, nor did I ever watch him coach his team from the sidelines. I did not know him personally. However, as a resident of Labuan Bajo—the beautiful but sometimes unpredictable place where he spent his final moments—I feel a profound duty to honor his memory.

​Fernando came to our waters seeking adventure and joy with his family. He arrived as a guest, and in our hearts, a guest is always treated with the deepest care. It breaks my heart that our town, which usually offers wonder and memories of a lifetime, became the backdrop for such a devastating tragedy for his family.

​To the world, Fernando was known as the dedicated coach of Valencia CF Femenino B, a mentor who guided young athletes with passion. But above all, he was a father. The tragedy of losing him alongside his three beloved children is a weight that is felt not just in Spain, but here on the shores of Flores as well.

​The sea connects us all, but it can be unforgiving. While we, the people of Labuan Bajo, cannot undo the waves or the wind, we can offer our collective silence and respect.

​To his wife, Andrea, and their surviving daughter: please know that even though you are far from home, you are not grieving alone. The community of Labuan Bajo mourns with you. We are strangers to you, but we share in your sorrow.

​May the memories of Fernando and his children be a source of strength. They will forever remain a part of our ocean's memory.