PCG divers, drone look for 10 missing passengers, crew in Basilan waters
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has expanded its search for the ten remaining missing passengers of the ferry M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 by deploying technical divers and an underwater drone in the waters of Basilan.
PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab said divers have been assigned to carry out underwater searches in specific target areas, while a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) is being used to examine deeper portions of the seabed that are unsafe for human divers.
According to the Coast Guard, the equipment allows search teams to gather visual data despite poor visibility and rough seas, helping to direct the ongoing rescue operations.
The roll-on/roll-off passenger ferry, operated by Aleson Shipping Lines, sank off Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan province on Monday (January 26) while it was traveling from Zamboanga City to Jolo in Sulu.
The vessel was carrying hundreds of passengers and crew when it sent out a distress signal before capsizing.
The PCG said 316 people have been rescued so far, while at least 18 deaths have been confirmed.
About 10 others remain missing, including crew members and a Coast Guard sea marshal.
The Department of Transportation ordered the grounding of Aleson Shipping Lines’ passenger fleet pending inspections and a safety audit.
Lawmakers have also called for an investigation into the company’s operations. /apl
