Philippine Coast Guard Technical Divers Locate Sunken Ferry in Basilan Waters
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has achieved a critical breakthrough in the ongoing maritime tragedy, with its Technical Diving Group successfully locating the submerged wreckage of the passenger ferry MV Trisha Kerstin 3 in the waters surrounding Baluk-Baluk Island, Basilan. This significant discovery comes as search, rescue, and recovery operations enter their second week following the vessel's catastrophic sinking.
Precise Location Identified Through Advanced Technology
In an official update released this week, the PCG confirmed that technical divers have positively identified the sunken vessel approximately 1.8 nautical miles off the coast of Baluk-Baluk Island. The discovery was made possible through the deployment of sophisticated search technologies, including side-scan sonar systems, which enabled the diving team to pinpoint the exact position of the wreck.
"Technical divers positively identified the wreck after clearly reading the vessel's name, MV Trisha Kerstin 3, marked on the ship's body during their descent into the submerged remains," the PCG stated in its latest official communication. This visual confirmation represents a crucial milestone in the complex recovery operation.
Rising Death Toll and Ongoing Recovery Efforts
The grim reality of this maritime disaster continues to unfold, with the confirmed death toll now standing at 45 individuals following the recovery of two additional bodies on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. According to PCG reports, these latest victims were discovered attached to railings inside the wreckage before being carefully brought to the surface for proper handling.
In contrast to these tragic losses, authorities have confirmed that 316 survivors have been successfully accounted for since the initial rescue operations began. The PCG has emphasized that dive operations are proceeding according to an approved plan, with the primary objectives being:
- Further assessment of the vessel's structural condition
- Support for potential additional recovery efforts
- Documentation of the wreck site for investigative purposes
DNA Identification Process Initiated by Philippine National Police
As recovery operations continue, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched a comprehensive DNA identification process to properly identify the recovered remains. PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has confirmed that family members of the victims have begun providing DNA samples to Scene of the Crime Operatives (Soco) personnel.
"We are closely coordinating with the Philippine Coast Guard and other agencies as we focus on proper collection, handling, and analysis of DNA samples provided by families," Nartatez stated. He acknowledged the challenges inherent in such identification processes, noting that "many factors can affect the identification process," but reassured the public that "our Soco experts are trained and equipped to handle these cases professionally."
Background of the Maritime Tragedy
The ill-fated MV Trisha Kerstin 3, a roll-on/roll-off passenger-cargo ferry operated by Aleson Shipping Lines, departed Zamboanga City on the evening of January 25, 2026, bound for Jolo, Sulu. The vessel capsized and sank in the waters off Basilan during the early hours of January 26, triggering an immediate and massive multi-agency search and rescue response.
The timeline of this tragedy reveals a steadily escalating death count, with initial reports on January 26 indicating approximately 15 confirmed fatalities. However, as recovery operations progressed over subsequent days and the wreck site was gradually located, the confirmed death toll increased significantly as more bodies were recovered from the waters.
Regulatory Response and Safety Measures
In response to this maritime disaster, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has taken decisive action by grounding the entire fleet of Aleson Shipping Lines. This measure forms part of a comprehensive maritime safety and inspection audit while authorities continue investigating the precise causes of the vessel's sinking.
Officials have repeatedly emphasized that locating the sunken ferry's exact position will "significantly aid search, retrieval, and investigative operations." Safety protocols remain paramount for diving teams working at depths where visibility and underwater conditions present ongoing challenges.
Continuing Search and Family Support Services
Despite the sobering recovery figures, authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to continuing search and rescue efforts for any remaining missing persons. Regular updates will be provided to the public as operations progress.
Families affected by this tragedy are receiving comprehensive support services, including access to DNA testing facilities and professional counseling services. The multi-agency response continues to coordinate efforts to provide both practical assistance and emotional support to those impacted by this devastating maritime incident.
