Zamboanga: 11th Infantry Division Conducts Comprehensive PTSD Debriefing for Maritime Incident Survivors
The 11th Infantry Division (11ID) has successfully conducted a crucial three-day Post-Traumatic Stress Debriefing program for military personnel who survived the tragic M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 maritime incident. This initiative, held from February 2 to 4, 2026, underscores the division's unwavering commitment to the mental health and overall welfare of its troops following the devastating event on January 26, 2026.
Structured Support and Professional Facilitation
The debriefing activity took place at the Alakdan Clubroom of Camp General Teodulfo Bautista in Busbus village, Jolo, Sulu. A total of 39 survivors from the 21st, 41st, and 100th Infantry Battalions participated in the sessions, which were expertly facilitated by Dr. Juliet Jakiran. According to an official 11ID statement, the program provided a safe and supportive environment for survivors to process their traumatic experiences, manage stress reactions, and initiate their psychological recovery journey.
The debriefing featured:
- Structured discussions to help participants articulate their emotions
- Trauma-informed interventions designed to address specific psychological needs
- Practical coping strategies for daily stress management
- Emphasis on peer support and resilience-building exercises
- Guidance on accessing professional mental health care as part of holistic soldier welfare
Command Leadership and Ongoing Recovery Efforts
Major General Leonardo Pe a, the 11ID commander, personally visited the activity to assess the morale and well-being of the troops. His presence reinforced the command's genuine concern for their emotional condition and recovery process. While the division continues to support the survivors' rehabilitation, one personnel remains missing from the incident. The command maintains steadfast concern, prayers, and close coordination with relevant authorities regarding this ongoing situation.
Major General Pe a expressed that the division remains hopeful and resolute, standing united with the families and comrades of those affected. The 11ID continues to extend support and pursue every possible effort in the spirit of duty, compassion, and solidarity.
Background of the Maritime Tragedy
The troops were returning to Sulu to resume duty after a holiday break when they boarded the ill-fated M/V Trisha Kerstin 3. The vessel was traveling to Jolo, Sulu when it sank on January 26, 2026, approximately 2.75 nautical miles northeast of Baluk-Baluk Island, Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan. This tragic incident has prompted the 11th Infantry Division to implement comprehensive mental health interventions to address the psychological impact on surviving personnel.
