Basilan Ferry Tragedy: Death Toll Climbs to 36 as Recovery Operations Persist
The Philippine Coast Guard has reported a somber update in the aftermath of the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 ferry disaster, with the death toll now rising to thirty-six individuals. This tragic incident occurred off the coast of Basilan province, where the roll-on/roll-off vessel sank nearly a week ago, prompting an extensive and ongoing search and retrieval mission.
Latest Recovery Efforts and Identification Procedures
In the early hours of Saturday, January 31, 2026, Philippine Coast Guard personnel successfully recovered three additional cadavers from the waters surrounding Hadji Muhtamad in Basilan. Two of these bodies were located near Baluk-Baluk Island and Mataja Island, while the third was retrieved later in the afternoon at sea. The remains have been transported to Zamboanga City for meticulous identification procedures and proper disposition, as authorities work to bring closure to grieving families.
Survivor Count and Passenger Verification Challenges
According to the latest reports from the PCG, the total number of survivors remains steady at 316 individuals. However, authorities are facing difficulties in verifying the final passenger count due to conflicting information from families and search teams. The ferry was originally carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members when it encountered distress approximately 2.75 nautical miles northeast of Baluk-Baluk Island. The vessel was en route from Zamboanga City to Jolo Island in Sulu at the time of the sinking on January 26.
Investigation into Safety Violations and Operational Discrepancies
The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and the Philippine Coast Guard have launched a comprehensive investigation into the cause of this maritime tragedy. Preliminary findings suggest potential safety violations and operational discrepancies. Marina spokesman Luisito delos Santos revealed that investigators are currently in Zamboanga to gather evidence, noting that it is premature to draw conclusions but indicating several violations have been identified.
"Marina probers are in Zamboanga to investigate. It’s hard to give conclusions at this point, but we are seeing different violations," delos Santos stated. He further explained, "For now, investigation showed that the passengers were supposed to board a different ship. The vessel’s name indicated in the ticket was allegedly different from the ship that was deployed. The passengers were not reportedly informed about this."
Challenges in Recovery Operations and Government Response
Recovery efforts at the wreck site are being hampered by hazardous conditions, including strong currents and the presence of marine predators, which complicate search and rescue operations and slow the pace of body recovery. In response to this devastating incident, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is reportedly reviewing the operating franchise of the ferry’s owner. Additionally, the DOTr has intensified inspections of other vessels operating on similar routes, coordinating closely with the PCG and Marina to enhance maritime safety measures.
The massive search and rescue operation has involved multiple agencies, including PCG units, local government teams, and volunteer fishermen, all working tirelessly to address this tragedy. Survivors have recounted sudden trouble onboard that led to the vessel’s distress, underscoring the urgency of the ongoing investigations and safety reviews.
