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PCG Recovers More Bodies As Divers Search Sunken MV Trisha Kerstin 3; Death Toll Now 51
Photo credit: PCG
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has recovered additional bodies from the sunken MV Trisha Kerstin 3 as technical divers continue operations off Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan.
According to the PCG, divers focused on sections of the vessel believed to have trapped passengers when the ferry sank. Recovery operations involved a detailed pre-dive briefing, strict adherence to safety protocols, and careful coordination with local authorities to ensure proper handling of the victims.
Latest Recovery and Casualty Figures
On February 10, PCG divers recovered more bodies, bringing the confirmed death toll to 51, while 316 survivors have been reported so far. Recovered remains were transported to Zamboanga City Port for identification.
The PCG is working closely with the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (ZCDRRMO) to maintain a respectful and dignified handling of the victims. Officials emphasized that recovery operations will continue, and casualty figures may still change as dives progress.
Ongoing Search Operations
Technical divers have been operating in challenging conditions, focusing on the ferry’s first-deck economy accommodation areas, where passengers were likely trapped. Recovery work is ongoing, with the PCG committed to both diver safety and the dignity of victims and their families.
The MV Trisha Kerstin 3, a roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferry, sank in Basilan waters in the early hours of January 26, 2026, while en route from Zamboanga City to Jolo, Sulu. The incident prompted a multi-agency search and rescue operation, followed by ongoing recovery efforts as the sunken vessel was located.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the sinking, including maritime safety compliance and vessel inspection records, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
According to the PCG, divers focused on sections of the vessel believed to have trapped passengers when the ferry sank. Recovery operations involved a detailed pre-dive briefing, strict adherence to safety protocols, and careful coordination with local authorities to ensure proper handling of the victims.
Latest Recovery and Casualty Figures
On February 10, PCG divers recovered more bodies, bringing the confirmed death toll to 51, while 316 survivors have been reported so far. Recovered remains were transported to Zamboanga City Port for identification.
The PCG is working closely with the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (ZCDRRMO) to maintain a respectful and dignified handling of the victims. Officials emphasized that recovery operations will continue, and casualty figures may still change as dives progress.
Ongoing Search Operations
Technical divers have been operating in challenging conditions, focusing on the ferry’s first-deck economy accommodation areas, where passengers were likely trapped. Recovery work is ongoing, with the PCG committed to both diver safety and the dignity of victims and their families.
The MV Trisha Kerstin 3, a roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferry, sank in Basilan waters in the early hours of January 26, 2026, while en route from Zamboanga City to Jolo, Sulu. The incident prompted a multi-agency search and rescue operation, followed by ongoing recovery efforts as the sunken vessel was located.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the sinking, including maritime safety compliance and vessel inspection records, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Feb 10, 2026
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