The Philippine Coast Guard has intensified its underwater recovery operations following the tragic sinking of the MV Trisha Kerstin 3, with the death toll now rising to 64 as two additional cadavers were retrieved from the wreckage. This solemn development underscores the ongoing challenges in the aftermath of the maritime disaster that has gripped the nation.
Underwater Recovery Efforts Yield More Victims
On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, technical divers from the Philippine Coast Guard successfully recovered two more bodies from the sunken vessel near Baluk-Baluk Island in Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan. The victims, identified as a female adult and a baby, were found as part of persistent underwater search operations aimed at locating all missing passengers.
With this latest recovery, the number of fatalities has climbed to 64, while 15 passengers remain unaccounted for. The Philippine Coast Guard reported that there are 293 survivors from the incident, highlighting the scale of the tragedy that unfolded when the ship sank on January 26 during a voyage from Zamboanga City to Jolo, Sulu.
Joint Validation and Coordination Efforts
The Philippine Coast Guard emphasized that the figures regarding fatalities, survivors, and missing individuals are being meticulously consolidated through a collaborative effort. This involves the Philippine National Police-Scene of the Crime Operatives, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao, and the affected families.
These groups maintain daily coordination with interagency search and rescue authorities to ensure accurate reporting and support for all involved. The shipwreck occurred approximately 2.75 nautical miles northeast of Baluk-Baluk Island, adding to the complexity of the recovery mission in the region's waters.
Solemn Military Honors for Fallen Soldier
In a related development, the Philippine military paid tribute to Staff Sergeant Windel Sabuyas Jr. of the 21st Infantry Battalion, who lost his life in the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 tragedy. On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, solemn departure honors were rendered at Colonel Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga City, recognizing his faithful, dedicated, and selfless service to the nation.
The ceremony was attended by Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Borras, commander of the 21st Infantry Battalion, along with Jenelyn Sabuyas, the bereaved widow, and other family members. Fellow soldiers from the 530th Air Base Group stood in formation during the rites, honoring Sabuyas for his courage and compassion displayed during the maritime incident.
Final Journey and Commemoration
Following the ceremony, the remains of Staff Sergeant Sabuyas were transported with full military respect aboard a Philippine Air Force NC212i aircraft to Tuguegarao City Airport, where arrival honors were also conducted. The 11th Infantry Division announced that interment and full funeral honors will be held in Lasam, Cagayan, providing a final resting place for the hero.
The 11th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Orion, led by Major General Leonardo Peña, extended their deepest sympathies to the Sabuyas family. They reaffirmed their commitment to honoring his life, heroism, and sacrifice, noting that his legacy of valor will continue to inspire soldiers across the ranks.
As recovery operations persist, the nation mourns the lives lost in the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 disaster, while military and coast guard personnel work tirelessly to bring closure to the affected families and uphold the memory of those who served with bravery.
