Strong waves sink vessel off Basilan; at least 15 dead, dozens missing

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – More than a dozen people died and many others are missing after strong waves battered a vessel and caused it to sink early Monday, January 26, off Baluk-Baluk Island, Basilan, while en route to Jolo, Sulu.

Quoting a Coast Guard report, Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman reported that at least 15 people died, and about 219 passengers have so far been rescued and brought to the Isabela City port. Four of those who died, he said, were taken to Isabela in body bags.

He said provincial resources were mobilized to assist survivors and the families of the deceased.

Strong waves flooded the lower deck of the passenger-cargo vessel causing it to capsize. The Philippine Coast Guard said the vessel , M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, was carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew.

The ship, operated by Aleson Shipping Lines, departed Zamboanga City at around 9:20 pm on Sunday, January 25. 

Authorities said it left with an authorized maximum passenger capacity of 352. 

The incident occurred at about 1:50 am, approximately 2.75 nautical miles northeast of Baluk-Baluk Island, prompting a distress call from the vessel’s PCG sea marshal.

A crew member told Brigada New FM in Zamboanga City that the vessel listed on its starboard side after the harness securing vehicles onboard snapped. 

“I was awakened by my companion telling me that the boat was listing. We tried to pump out the water but it was too late,” he said. “We rushed to the upper decks and gave life vests to the passengers,” he added.

The Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao immediately dispatched the patrol vessel BRP Tubbataha (MRRV-4401) from Zamboanga City. 

Rescue operations are being reinforced by commercial vessels, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, government agencies, and local authorities. Fishing boats and motorized vessels have also joined the effort. No oil spill has been reported.

It was the second major incident involving a vessel owned by Aleson Shipping Lines. In March 2023, M/V Lady Mary Joy 3 caught fire near Baluk-Baluk Island while sailing to Jolo, Sulu from Zamboanga City.

Rescue and recovery operations remain ongoing. – Rappler.com