PAGADIAN CITY, Philippines — At least 18 people, including a six-month-old infant, have been confirmed dead after a passenger ferry bound for Jolo, Sulu, sank off the coast of Basilan early Monday morning, January 26, 2026.
The MV Trisha Kerstin 3, operated by Aleson Shipping Lines, encountered “serious technical problems” before being battered by strong waves near Baluk-Baluk Island.
The Rescue Effort Despite the tragic loss of life, a massive search and rescue operation successfully saved 316 individuals, including passengers and crew members.
- The Incident: The vessel departed Zamboanga City at 9:20 p.m. on Sunday and issued a distress call at approximately 1:00 a.m. Monday.
- Accounting for Passengers: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) clarified that the ship was carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members. With 334 people accounted for (316 rescued and 18 dead), 25 remains unaccounted for as of Monday evening.
- Not Overloaded: PCG officials emphasized that the ferry was within its authorized capacity of 352 passengers, refuting early rumors of overloading.
Immediate Response Rescuers from the PCG, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and local government units—as well as private commercial vessels in the area—converged on the site near Baluk-Baluk Island.
- Medical Care: Survivors were brought to Isabela City, Basilan, and Zamboanga City. At least 24 people required hospitalization for further treatment.
- Palace Action: President Marcos has ordered the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to provide immediate financial and relief assistance to the victims and their families.
Investigation and Assistance A formal probe has been launched to determine the exact cause of the sinking and to verify if any maritime laws were violated.
- Information Desks: The PCG has set up a dedicated help desk in Sulu to provide verified updates to families of the passengers.
- Company Statement: Aleson Shipping Lines stated that they are working closely with authorities and have deployed their own vessels to assist in the ongoing search for the missing.
The tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the risks of maritime travel in the region during periods of rough weather. Search and rescue operations are expected to continue at first light on Tuesday for the remaining missing individuals.