Death Toll Hits 65: Another Body Recovered from Sunken MV Trisha Kerstin 3 as Divers Search Wreckage Off Basilan

The death toll from the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 sinking has climbed to 65 after Philippine Coast Guard technical divers recovered another body during underwater operations off Basilan on Saturday, February 22.

According to the PCG’s latest situational update, 293 passengers and crew survived the maritime disaster, but 14 individuals remain missing. The grim numbers were consolidated through joint validation efforts involving the PCG, PNP Scene of the Crime Operatives, local disaster management officials, and affected families coordinating daily with inter-agency responders.

Technical dive teams continue to work around the clock, accessing submerged sections of the vessel believed to be potential locations of trapped victims. The painstaking underwater search is complicated by the depth and condition of the wreckage.

The tragedy remains one of the deadliest maritime disasters in the Philippines in recent years, underscoring ongoing concerns about vessel safety and passenger regulations in the country’s busy inter-island shipping routes.

For the families still waiting for news of the 14 missing passengers, every day brings more anguish. The PCG has vowed to continue operations until all victims are accounted for. Ipagdasal natin ang mga biktima at kanilang mga pamilya.

Source: The Manila Times