Philippine Coast Guard Divers Recover Another Victim from Sunken Vessel
In a somber development from the ongoing maritime tragedy, technical divers from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) successfully recovered one cadaver during underwater operations conducted on Sunday, February 22, 2026. This recovery is directly connected to the devastating M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 incident that has gripped the nation.
Updated Casualty Figures Confirm Rising Toll
With this latest recovery operation, official figures now show a significant increase in the human cost of this disaster. The PCG has confirmed that the total number of fatalities has now reached 65 individuals. Meanwhile, the number of survivors remains at 293, while 14 people are still unaccounted for and considered missing.
These numbers have been carefully consolidated through joint validation efforts involving multiple agencies including the Philippine National Police-Scene of the Crime Operatives (PNP-Soco), the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao (CGDSWM), and representatives from the affected families.
Details of the Recovered Victim
The Basilan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) provided specific details about the recovered individual. According to their report, the victim was a male found in the vessel's car deck bow area. He was wearing distinctive clothing including a black jacket and brown shorts, along with a life jacket. Personal effects recovered with the body included a cellular phone and a black sling bag.
"Search and retrieval efforts continue pending formal identification of the recovered individual," the PDRRMO stated, emphasizing that operations will persist despite this recovery.
Background of the Maritime Tragedy
The M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 met its tragic fate on January 26, sinking approximately 2.75 nautical miles northeast of Baluk-Baluk Island, Hadji Muhtamad. The vessel was traveling from Zamboanga City to Jolo, Sulu when the incident occurred, resulting in one of the most significant maritime disasters in recent Philippine history.
In response to this tragedy, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) took decisive action by suspending the entire passenger fleet of Aleson Shipping Lines, the Zamboanga City-based company that owns the ill-fated M/V Trisha Kerstin 3. This regulatory move underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating this incident and their commitment to maritime safety.
The recovery operation represents both progress in accounting for all victims and a painful reminder of the scale of this tragedy. As divers continue their meticulous work in challenging underwater conditions, families await closure while the nation mourns the substantial loss of life in this maritime disaster.
