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Philstar.com
February 2, 2026 | 9:56am
Coast Guard personnel recover three bodies off the coast of Basilan yesterday amid search and rescue operations following the sinking of Trisha Kerstin 3.
MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Special Assistant to the President (OSAP) extended its deepest condolences to the families of those who perished in the sinking of passenger-cargo vessel M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, which capsized off the waters of Basilan last January 26.
In a statement, SAP Anton Lagdameo conveyed the message of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., reflecting the Chief Executive’s personal sorrow and concern for the victims and their families.
He said the President has already directed all concerned agencies to ensure immediate assistance to survivors and bereaved families, as well as the swift delivery of all the necessary support.
The OSAP added that it stands in solidarity with the bereaved families, affected communities, and the entire nation as it mourns one of the deadliest maritime disasters in recent years.
The vessel, bound from Zamboanga City to Jolo, Sulu, foundered in the early hours of January 26, sending hundreds of passengers into the sea. Extensive search, rescue, and retrieval operations have since been conducted under the leadership of the Philippine Coast Guard with the support of local government units and volunteer groups. Latest reports confirm that around 40 bodies have been recovered, while more than hundred passengers were rescued.
Lagdameo conveyed sympathy to the grieving families.
“We stand in solidarity with the grieving families,” he said. “The government stands ready to extend all possible support and comfort during this difficult time.”
He reaffirmed the national government’s commitment to assist those left behind.
Lagdameo also expressed deep appreciation to responders — including personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard, the Armed Forces, local disaster teams, and civilian volunteers — whose efforts continue despite challenging sea conditions.
Beyond relief efforts, Lagdameo underscored the urgent need for accountability, stressing that the circumstances surrounding the sinking must be fully and transparently examined.
The OSAP also expressed full support for a swift, thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation into the tragedy. Lagdameo emphasized that authorities must establish the facts on vessel seaworthiness, passenger capacity, weather conditions, and regulatory compliance prior to the voyage.
“We owe it to the victims and their families to pursue the truth,” he said, adding that accountability is essential to restoring public confidence in maritime transport.
Lagdameo further called on concerned agencies to review and strengthen maritime safety protocols. He affirmed that the national government will work closely with regulators to ensure that lessons from the tragedy lead to concrete reforms, stricter enforcement, and stronger safeguards for the traveling public. (Contributed story)
