ASIATODAY.ID, MANILA — A major maritime tragedy has struck the southern Philippines after a passenger ferry carrying more than 350 people sank at sea, leaving at least 15 people dead and 28 others still missing, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
The vessel, identified as MV Trisha Kerstin 3, was traveling from Zamboanga City to Jolo Island in Sulu province when it capsized and sank near Baluk-Baluk Island, Basilan, on Monday.
Latest Official Figures
Authorities confirmed that the ferry was carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members at the time of the incident. 15 confirmed fatalities, 316 people rescued and 28 still missing as of the latest update.
Rescue teams warn that the death toll could rise as search operations continue in challenging maritime conditions.
Dramatic Rescue Operations
Video footage circulating on social media shows survivors floating in open waters, clinging to emergency rafts and debris, many wearing life vests as they awaited rescue.
The Philippine Coast Guard, Navy units, military aircraft, and local fishing boats were immediately deployed in a large-scale search and rescue operation, which remains ongoing.
Survivors were transported to nearby ports and hospitals in Basilan, where many were treated for hypothermia, injuries, and severe exhaustion.
Cause of Sinking Under Investigation
The exact cause of the disaster is still under active investigation. Authorities said the ferry had passed a pre-departure safety inspection and there were no initial signs of overloading.
Early assessments point to a possible technical failure or structural damage, though officials have not ruled out other contributing factors. Weather conditions at the time were reported to be relatively stable.
A Persistent Maritime Safety Problem
The Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, relies heavily on sea transport. However, ferry accidents remain a recurring problem, often linked to aging vessels, weak enforcement of safety standards, and overcrowding on popular routes.
This latest incident has reignited public and international scrutiny over maritime safety regulations in the country.
This is a developing story. Authorities say figures may change as rescue and recovery efforts continue. (AT Network)
Follow Us at Google News and WA Channel