Philippine Coast Guard Completes Underwater Search of Sunken Vessel, Continues Re-swiping
The Philippine Coast Guard-Technical Diving Group (PCG-TDG) is conducting re-swiping procedures until Thursday, February 26, 2026, to ensure that no area of the sunken M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 is left unchecked. This follows the completion of a full underwater search of the vessel on Monday, February 23, after 27 days of high-risk technical wreck deep water diving operations in the vicinity of Baluk-Baluk Island, Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan.
Challenging Underwater Conditions
Commodore Rejard Marfe, commander of the Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao (CGDSWM), detailed the arduous conditions faced by technical divers since operations began on January 28. They worked through strong underwater currents, near-zero visibility due to heavy siltation, submerged hazards, and the vessel's structural instability. Despite these challenges, the team recovered 22 cadavers from various sections of the sunken vessel.
Marfe explained that the PCG-TDG systematically searched Decks A and B, the car deck—including vehicles on board—and the engine room. The engine room was penetrated despite oil contamination and scattered debris that caused limited visibility. All diving operations were documented through underwater video recordings to support the ongoing investigation.
Vessel Assessment and Ongoing Efforts
Underwater assessments revealed that the vessel is currently listing to port (left side), with both exposed sides of the hull, including the ramps, remaining intact and showing no visible external fractures. On the car deck, partially collapsed vehicles leaning toward the left side created additional obstructions, making interior access more challenging.
"While the entire vessel has now been searched, the PCG-TDG will continue diving operations until February 26, to conduct re-swiping procedures," Marfe stated. "This is to ensure that no area is left unchecked and to provide assurance to the families awaiting closure."
Casualty Figures and Incident Background
PCG data indicates that the total number of fatalities in the sinking of M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 is 65, with 293 survivors and 14 individuals still missing. These figures were consolidated through joint validation efforts involving the Philippine National Police-Scene of the Crime Operatives (PNP-Soco), City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), CGDSWM, and affected families, who conduct daily coordination with interagency search and rescue authorities.
The vessel sank approximately 2.75 nautical miles northeast of Baluk-Baluk Island, Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan, while on a voyage from Zamboanga City to Jolo, Sulu on January 26. This maritime incident prompted the government, through the Maritime Industry Authority, to suspend the entire passenger fleet of Aleson Shipping Lines, a Zamboanga City-based shipping firm.
