BASILAN — February 4, 2026 — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has officially located the wreck of MV Trisha Kerstin III in the waters off Baluk-Baluk Island, Basilan, marking a critical breakthrough in the ongoing search and recovery operations following one of the deadliest maritime disasters in recent years.
The discovery was confirmed on February 3 during technical dive operations conducted by the PCG. Commander Cheska Jamorol, Supervisor of the PCG Technical Diving Group, said the sunken passenger vessel was found resting on the seabed in an east-to-west orientation relative to Baluk-Baluk Island, providing authorities with vital information for the next phase of recovery and investigation.
As dive and surface operations continued, the joint search and rescue (SAR) team—composed of PCG personnel, other government agencies, local government units, and volunteer fisherfolk—recovered one additional cadaver from the area. The remains were turned over for proper identification and disposition.
With the latest recovery, the confirmed death toll has risen to 43, while the number of survivors remains at 316, according to the PCG.
The sinking of MV Trisha Kerstin III has drawn nationwide attention and renewed scrutiny over maritime safety and vessel operations in the southern Philippines. The passenger ship left Zamboanga City on January 25 en route to Jolo, Sulu, before it met disaster in the waters of Basilan the following day.
Authorities earlier ordered the grounding of vessels operated by Aleson Shipping Lines, as a comprehensive maritime safety and inspection audit continues. The PCG has reiterated its commitment to fully account for all missing passengers and crew, determine the cause of the sinking, and ensure accountability.
Search, retrieval, and investigative operations are ongoing, with the PCG emphasizing that the confirmed location of the wreck will significantly aid efforts to recover remaining victims and piece together the final moments of the ill-fated voyage.