MV Trisha Kerstin 3 death toll climbs to 52Philippine Coast Guard divers recover a body from the sunken MV Trisha Kerstin 3 off Baluk-Baluk Island, Basilan, during ongoing search and rescue operations on Feb. 11, 2026. MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Wednesday, February 11, confirmed that the death toll from the sunken MV Trisha Kerstin 3 in Basilan has risen to 52 after another body was recovered during ongoing search and rescue operations. The BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702) deployed its rigid-hull inflatable boat to retrieve the body from the dive site. The vessel, which departed from the Port of Zamboanga City on the evening of January 25 bound for Jolo, Sulu, submerged in Basilan waters the following morning. Following the incident, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) temporarily grounded the entire fleet of Aleson Shipping Lines as maritime authorities conducted a safety and inspection audit.

Source: Philippine Star February 11, 2026 08:50 UTC