The death toll from the sinking of the roll-on/roll-off vessel M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 has risen to 40 after three more bodies were recovered this week in waters off Basilan, according to the Philippine Coast Guard.
Two bodies were found near Baluk-Baluk Island, while another was recovered near Lantawan Island. The Coast Guard said all three remains are scheduled to be transported to Zamboanga City for proper disposition.
Authorities reported that 316 passengers have survived the incident.
The M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 sank on Jan. 26 while traveling from Zamboanga City to Jolo, Sulu. Search and rescue operations remain ongoing as officials continue verifying reports that the vessel may have carried more passengers than listed in the official manifest.
The Maritime Industry Authority, or MARINA, has launched an investigation into the possible causes of the sinking.
MARINA spokesperson Director Luisito Delos Santos said authorities are looking into several factors, including possible overloading, a shortage of life vests, and the vessel’s condition due to its age.
Delos Santos stressed the importance of ensuring that the number of functional life jackets matches the authorized passenger capacity of the vessel.
While the ship’s documents were reportedly valid, Delos Santos said concerns have been raised about the actual number of passengers onboard and possible lapses by operators in maintaining the seaworthiness of the vessel.
The Coast Guard continues its search efforts as investigators assess whether safety requirements were properly followed before the vessel departed.
The incident has renewed concerns over maritime safety and passenger compliance in sea travel routes in the southern Philippines.
