Basilan Ferry Disaster: Death Toll Climbs to 51 After Latest Recovery Operations
The Philippine Coast Guard has reported a tragic increase in fatalities from the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 ferry sinking, with the death toll now reaching 51. This update comes after technical divers conducted critical underwater operations in the challenging waters off Baluk-Baluk Island, Basilan.
Underwater Recovery Efforts in Deep Waters
On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, Philippine Coast Guard technical divers executed precise underwater operations at the wreck site of the sunken vessel. The dive team worked at an approximate depth of 180 feet in the vicinity waters off Baluk-Baluk Island, where they successfully retrieved five additional cadavers from the submerged ferry.
The recovered remains were immediately secured and are currently being transported to Zamboanga City Port for proper identification and disposition. This process is being coordinated with the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office to ensure respectful handling of the victims.
Current Status of Survivors and Passengers
The Philippine Coast Guard confirmed that the total number of survivors from the maritime tragedy remains at 316 individuals. This figure represents the majority of those aboard the ill-fated vessel when it encountered disaster.
The M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 was carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members when it sank in the early morning hours of January 26, 2026. The vessel was approximately 2.75 nautical miles northeast of Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan province during its regular route from Zamboanga City to Jolo Island in Sulu.
Ongoing Maritime Investigation and Response
The Philippine Coast Guard has located the wreck of the Trisha Kerstin and continues to conduct thorough search and rescue operations alongside dive missions. These efforts represent some of the most challenging maritime recovery operations in recent Philippine history due to the depth and location of the sunken vessel.
Maritime authorities are maintaining close coordination with local disaster management offices to ensure comprehensive response measures. The tragedy has highlighted the importance of maritime safety protocols and emergency response capabilities in the region's waters.
