Philippine Coast Guard Divers Recover Two More Bodies in Basilan Shipwreck Search
Technical divers from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) have made a grim discovery during ongoing underwater search operations in the waters off Basilan province. On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the divers recovered two additional bodies from the wreckage of the sunken M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, bringing the total number of confirmed fatalities to 64.
Verification and Consolidated Figures
In a situation update released by the PCG, authorities emphasized that the fatality count has been meticulously verified and consolidated through a collaborative effort involving multiple agencies. The PCG stated, "With this development, the total number of fatalities has increased to 64, with 293 survivors and 15 individuals remain missing." This verification process included coordination with the Philippine National Police's crime scene operatives, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao, and members of the public to ensure accuracy.
Ongoing Underwater Search Operations
The recovery of the two bodies on Wednesday follows similar operations conducted just a day earlier. On Tuesday, February 17, PCG divers had already retrieved four cadavers from the same underwater site near Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan. These operations are part of a sustained effort to locate all victims of the maritime disaster, with technical diving teams preparing and executing dives to search the vessel's wreckage since the incident occurred on February 12, 2026.
Background and Legal Actions
The sinking of the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 has prompted significant legal repercussions. On February 11, 2026, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez announced that criminal and administrative charges would be filed against Aleson Shipping Line, the operator of the sunken vessel, as well as some executives of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA). This move underscores the government's commitment to accountability and safety in the maritime sector following the tragedy.
As the search continues for the 15 missing individuals, the PCG remains dedicated to its mission, with divers braving challenging underwater conditions to bring closure to affected families. The incident highlights the critical role of technical diving in disaster response and the importance of inter-agency cooperation in managing such crises.
