Philippine Coast Guard and officials help a survivor of a ferry that capsized off Basilan on January 26, 2026. PCG

At least 317 people were rescued, while 18 were confirmed dead after a passenger ferry capsized off the southern Philippine province of Basilan, with search and rescue operations continuing for those still missing, authorities said. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed that the accident occurred shortly after midnight on January 26 (Monday) as the vessel was travelling from Zamboanga City to Jolo, Sulu. The passenger ship, M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, was carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members when it began taking in water and eventually sank around 2.75 miles northeast of Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan waters. Coast Guard Commander Romel Dua, head of the Southern Mindanao District, said 317 passengers and crew members were rescued following the incident. As of 11:21am, authorities confirmed 18 fatalities, while 24 people remain missing. “Upon receipt of the distress call from the PCG sea marshal onboard, the Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao immediately deployed BRP Tubbataha from Zamboanga City,” the Coast Guard said in an incident report. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing, with assistance from commercial vessels, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, and other government agencies. The Coast Guard also confirmed that no oil spill has been detected in the area so far. The ferry is operated by Aleson Shipping Lines and was reported to be operating within its authorised maximum passenger capacity of 352 at the time of the incident. Authorities said an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident. ICA/Expat Media
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