THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said operations to locate the wreckage and victims of the sunken roll-on/roll-off ferry MV Trisha Kerstin 3 are ongoing in the waters off Baluk-Baluk Island.
As of Jan. 30, the confirmed death toll has climbed to 33, with 316 survivors rescued.
The PCG noted the number of missing people has yet to be officially determined.
On Friday, divers from the PCG Technical Diving Group conducted underwater search operations to pinpoint the vessel’s location.
Following an early morning briefing, the team deployed aboard the BRP Melchora Aquino and dropped a descending line to approximately 164 feet to guide technical divers toward the suspected wreck site.
The operation yielded no results. Divers reported strong underwater currents that pushed them nearly 1 kilometer from the intended drop point.
They were forced to descend to depths of up to 187 feet to safely resurface and return to Pilas Wharf.
The wider search mission has involved local government units, volunteer fishers, and the PCG’s BRP Capones. Recovered remains are undergoing identification procedures in Zamboanga City, the PCG said.
The Maritime Industry Authority has launched a safety audit of Aleson Shipping Lines, the vessel’s operator, to assess its safety management systems and compliance with maritime standards.
The ferry sank on Jan. 26, prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement of maritime safety rules.
Initial findings revealed conflicting passenger records, possible overloading, and cargo lashing failures.
Authorities have ordered the temporary suspension of Aleson’s passenger fleet.
