Photo credit: PCG

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has confirmed the recovery of four additional bodies on Tuesday, bringing the official death toll from the sinking of MV Trisha Kerstin 3 to 62.

Technical divers retrieved the bodies during early-morning operations near the wreck site off Baluk‑Baluk Island, where the vessel capsized on February 14.

Updated Numbers

According to the PCG District Southwestern Mindanao, 293 survivors have been accounted for so far, while 17 passengers remain missing. Officials said the new figures came after joint validation with the Philippine National Police-Scene of the Crime Operatives, the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and the families of the victims.

Many passengers were reportedly unlisted or boarded as chance passengers, complicating the finalization of the manifest.

Widened Search Operations

Rescuers have expanded their search radius, deploying additional sonar equipment, rubber boats, and diving teams. Divers continue to enter submerged compartments believed to have trapped passengers as the ship quickly overturned after reportedly encountering mechanical issues and strong waves.

Despite improved visibility in some areas, currents remain strong, slowing down retrieval efforts.

Families Await Updates

At the shoreline in Zamboanga City, families of the missing have set up temporary waiting areas. Some expressed frustration over the slow identification process, while others said they are simply hoping for closure.

Authorities urged patience, emphasizing the difficulty and risk involved in deep-water recovery.

Investigation Underway

A formal probe is ongoing to determine whether overloading, mechanical failure, weather conditions, or crew actions contributed to the tragedy. Maritime officials said sanctions or even criminal charges may follow if negligence is established.

For now, the priority remains locating the 17 missing passengers, as recovery teams race against shifting tides and deteriorating underwater conditions.