Update 2 (as of 2:26 p.m., 26 January 2026):
Rescue authorities said 317 people have been rescued as of 2:23 p.m. Monday, while 24 remain missing. The death toll has climbed to 18.
Update 1 (as of 8:38 a.m., 26 January 2026):
Rescue operations were continuing after the sinking of MV Trisha Kerstin 3 off Basilan, with 316 passengers rescued, 15 fatalities confirmed, and 43 individuals still missing, according to the Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao.
This is a developing story. Refresh for updates.
A roll-on, roll-off vessel bound for Sulu from Zamboanga City sank off the coast of Basilan near Barangay Baluk-baluk Island early Monday morning.
The Philippine Coast Guard said the passenger vessel was carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members, within its authorized maximum capacity of 352 passengers.