Sunken ferry search nears completion

ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is making steady progress in the search for the sunken MV Trisha Kerstin 3. As of Sunday, about 75 percent of the ferry’s hull and surrounding debris field has been carefully scanned, marking a major milestone in the ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan said the dives have focused on key areas like cabins, the engine room, and cargo holds. “Our Technical Diving Group is checking every compartment with rebreathers, sonar mapping, and remote-operated vehicles to ensure nothing is overlooked,” he explained.

The operation hasn’t been easy. Divers face depths exceeding 60 feet, strong currents, and interference from marine life, yet progress continues. Despite the almost month-long submersion, hopes for finding survivors remain alive, though the tragic reality has already claimed 64 lives, with 293 survivors accounted for and 17 still missing.

Recent dives have yielded more recoveries, including the bodies of an adult female and an infant from the bridge and accommodation areas. As the underwater sweep nears completion, focus will shift to debris analysis and evidence collection to support the ongoing investigation.

In the wake of the disaster, the Department of Transportation has suspended the entire Aleson Shipping Lines fleet while probes into possible negligence and operational lapses are conducted. Advocacy groups are also calling for transparency and accountability to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The MV Trisha Kerstin 3 departed Zamboanga City on 25 January with 314 passengers and 27 crew, just under its 352-person capacity. Early reports from survivors indicated pre-departure issues, including noticeable tilting while docked — signs that may point to overloading or safety lapses. Rough seas soon overwhelmed the lower decks, causing the ferry to capsize 1.8 nautical miles off Baluk-Baluk Island in the Sulu Sea.