A significant maritime emergency unfolded in the southern Philippines early Monday as the inter-island ferry M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 sank near Baluk-baluk village in Basilan province. Carrying 359 people total—332 passengers and 27 crew members—the vessel encountered apparent technical complications and foundered approximately one nautical mile from shore shortly after midnight, despite favorable weather conditions.
The subsequent search and rescue operation mobilized a substantial force from multiple agencies. Coast guard and navy vessels were deployed to the area, supported by an air force Black Hawk helicopter, a surveillance aircraft, and local fishing boats. Coast Guard Commander Romel Dua confirmed that a safety officer aboard the ferry provided the initial alert, enabling the rapid emergency response.
Authorities reported that 316 individuals have been successfully rescued from the waters. Tragically, the bodies of 15 victims have been recovered. Survivors were initially transported to the island village of Baluk-baluk, with several others, including two fatalities, arriving at the provincial capital of Isabela. Provincial Governor Mujiv Hataman was present at the pier to receive them.
Commander Dua stated that an official investigation will be launched to determine the precise cause of the sinking. He noted that the vessel had received clearance from the coast guard prior to its departure from Zamboanga port and showed no indications of overloading. This incident highlights the persistent challenges of maritime safety in the Philippine archipelago, where sea accidents remain common due to factors including frequent storms, inadequate vessel maintenance, overcrowding, and inconsistent enforcement of safety protocols. The nation’s history includes the world’s worst peacetime maritime disaster—the 1987 sinking of the Dona Paz, which resulted in over 4,300 fatalities.