The provincial government of Basilan has extended crucial financial support to victims of a maritime tragedy that unfolded on Monday, January 26, 2026. A total of P1.2 million in aid has been distributed to assist those affected by the sinking of a commercial ferry in the waters near Baluk-Baluk Island, Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan province.
Immediate Relief for Survivors and Bereaved Families
Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman personally oversaw the distribution of cash assistance at the port of Isabela City, the provincial capital. Each of the 223 survivors brought to Isabela City received P5,000 in immediate financial relief. In a compassionate gesture, the families of the seven confirmed fatalities were provided with P10,000 each to help with funeral expenses and other urgent needs during this difficult time.
Medical Care and Support Services
Of the 223 survivors who arrived in Isabela City, 24 required urgent medical attention and were promptly rushed to the Basilan Medical Center for treatment. Governor Hataman assured the public that these patients are currently under the professional care of the hospital's dedicated doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff.
Meanwhile, 12 additional survivors who were transported to Zamboanga City received medical treatment at the Zamboanga City Medical Center. To address immediate nutritional needs, the Department of Social Welfare and Development provided ready-to-eat meals to survivors in both Basilan and Zamboanga City locations.
Details of the Maritime Incident
The vessel involved in this tragedy was identified as the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, operated by locally based Aleson Shipping Lines. The ferry sank around 1:50 a.m. on Monday while en route from Zamboanga City to Jolo, Sulu. The vessel was carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members at the time of the incident.
Ongoing Search and Rescue Operations
Search and rescue operations continue near Baluk-Baluk Island, Hadji Muhtamad, as authorities work to account for all passengers and crew. Aleson Shipping Lines issued a statement confirming their immediate response to the distress call, activating quick response measures and deploying all available vessels to the area.
The shipping company emphasized their close coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard and all concerned authorities, stating they have been working tirelessly since the incident was reported. This marks the second maritime incident involving an Aleson Shipping Lines vessel in recent years, following the M/V Lady Mary Joy 3 fire near the same area on March 29, 2023.
The provincial government's swift action in providing financial assistance demonstrates their commitment to supporting affected communities during times of crisis, while search efforts continue to ensure the safety of all individuals involved in this maritime tragedy.
