A packed inter-island ferry went down in the waters of the southern Philippines early Monday, claiming at least 13 lives while triggering an urgent, large-scale rescue mission that pulled hundreds from the sea.
The vessel, M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, was traveling from Zamboanga City to Jolo Island in Sulu when it encountered trouble shortly after midnight. Officials say the ferry was carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members when it sank less than two kilometers from the coastal village of Baluk-baluk in Basilan province.
Despite calm weather conditions, the ship reportedly suffered technical issues before going under. Survivors were initially brought ashore in nearby communities, many of them aided by local fishermen who rushed to help.
Coast guard commander Romel Dua confirmed that rescue operations involved navy and coast guard ships, a surveillance aircraft, an Air Force Black Hawk helicopter, and dozens of fishing boats sweeping the area for survivors.
Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman said victims were transported to Isabela City, where emergency teams awaited incoming boats. “We’re receiving dozens at the pier. Sadly, some did not survive,” he said.
As of the latest update, authorities report 244 people rescued and 13 bodies recovered. The exact cause of the sinking remains under investigation. Officials stated the ferry had passed safety checks before departure and showed no signs of being overloaded.
Search and recovery efforts continue as families wait for news of loved ones in one of the region’s deadliest maritime incidents this year.
