HADJI MUHTAMAD, BASILAN — Authorities are escalating their search efforts for the sunken M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, pivoting to sound navigation and ranging (sonar) technology after previously deployed underwater drones failed to pinpoint the vessel’s location.
The new phase of the operation is scheduled to begin today, Monday, February 2, 2026, following a recommendation from the local government of Hadji Muhtamad to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
Technical Shift in Search Strategy The decision to utilize sonar comes after the search team encountered significant obstacles with visual-based Remote Operated Vehicles (ROVs):
- Terrain Challenges: Difficult underwater terrain and low-visibility conditions made it nearly impossible for ROVs to navigate effectively.
- Sonar Advantage: Unlike visual drones, sonar emits sound waves that bounce off solid objects on the seabed, allowing for the creation of a detailed map of the wreckage regardless of water clarity.
- Private Sector Support: The Hadji Muhtamad LGU, led by Mayor Arsina Kasing-Nanoh, secured the necessary sonar equipment through partnerships with the private sector.
Tragedy Background The M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 capsized and sank off Baluk-Baluk Island shortly after midnight on January 6, 2026.
- Casualties: The death toll currently stands at 40 people, with several others still officially missing.
- Survivors: Out of the 332 passengers on board, 317 survived the incident.
- Digital Clue: Investigators are also considering a social media lead from a relative of one of the victims, who shared the tracked location of a missing iPad in hopes of providing a specific search coordinate.
The Mission Ahead Search operations will focus on the vessel’s last known position. Mayor Kasing-Nanoh reiterated the government’s commitment to providing closure for the families of the victims. “We are coordinating closely with the PCG to accelerate and enhance the search… as we enter this more technical phase,” the mayor said.
The PCG has yet to release the exact coordinates of the planned sonar sweep, but the arrival of the specialized equipment is expected to drastically increase the chances of locating the hull and recovering any remaining victims.