The tragic maritime incident involving a passenger ferry off the coast of Basilan has seen its death toll climb to 37, as search and retrieval efforts led by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) continue into the weekend. This update comes from authorities on Saturday, January 31, 2026, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the aftermath of the January 26 sinking.
Latest Developments in the Search Operation
According to the Basilan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), three additional cadavers were retrieved on Saturday, bringing the total number of recovered fatalities to 37. The office shared this information on its social media page, emphasizing the coordinated efforts to address the disaster.
Coordinated Response Efforts
The retrieval operation for the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 incident is being spearheaded by the Philippine Coast Guard, with crucial support from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Hadji Muhtamad and the Basilan PDRRMO. The PCG has announced that the recovered bodies will be transported to Zamboanga City for proper disposition, ensuring respectful handling of the victims.
Enhanced Search Capabilities
In a move to bolster the ongoing operations, the PCG deployed an additional vessel, the BRP Mechora Aquino, on Friday, January 30. This vessel is assisting in the retrieval efforts in the vicinity of Baluk-Baluk Island, Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan, where the sinking occurred approximately 2.75 nautical miles northeast of the island.
Human Element in the Recovery Mission
On Saturday, January 31, technical divers deployed by the PCG were observed praying and seeking divine intervention as they prepared to dive and locate the shipwreck. Equipped with advanced technology, including a Remotely Operated Vehicle, these divers are working tirelessly to ensure no victim is left behind.
Statement from Basilan PDRRMO Chief
Basilan PDRRMO Chief Nixon Alonzo provided a statement, underscoring the mission's focus. "We remain focused on completing the retrieval process to ensure no victim is left unaccounted for, and to provide the much-needed closure to all affected families as we work with local authorities and the Red Cross on identification and support efforts," he said. This highlights the emotional and logistical aspects of the disaster response.
Details of the Sinking Incident
The M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 was carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members when it sank on January 26. Owned by Zamboanga City-based Aleson Shipping Lines, the vessel was en route from Zamboanga City to Jolo, Sulu, at the time of the incident. The PCG has been providing regular updates on the situation, reflecting the scale of this maritime tragedy.
As operations continue, authorities are committed to thorough retrieval and support for the affected communities, with the death toll now standing at 37 and further updates expected as the search progresses.
