Manila, Philippines – An Aleson Shipping Lines passenger ferry, M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, tragically sank early on Monday (January 26, 2026) while en route from Zamboanga City to Jolo in Sulu.
The Philippine Coast Guard has confirmed that at least 15 individuals lost their lives in this disaster. The ferry was reportedly carrying approximately 332 passengers along with a crew of 27 at the time of the incident.
The vessel encountered serious technical difficulties and went down off the Basilan coast near Baluk-Baluk Island. Witnesses stated that the ship appeared to sustain damage causing rapid flooding.
Rescue efforts, spearheaded by the Philippine Coast Guard, naval forces, local agencies, and fisherman, have successfully saved over 200 individuals, although a number of people are still unaccounted for. Medical personnel are on alert and are providing care for the survivors in local hospitals.
Investigations are underway to determine the facts surrounding the sinking. The Philippines, being an archipelago, has witnessed its share of ferry-related mishaps, often linked to adverse weather and safety regulations. Notably, in 2023, a ferry fire led to the loss of more than 30 lives in the southern region.
Search and rescue operations remain active as the situation continues to unfold.
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