The Philippine Coast Guard Technical Diving Group (PCG-TDG) on Tuesday called off its search for fatalities in the sunken MV Trisha Kerstin 3, ending 27 days of deep diving operations in the waters off Baluk-Baluk Island, Basilan.
“Since January 28, 2026, PCG technical divers have worked through strong underwater currents, near-zero visibility due to heavy siltation, submerged hazards, and the vessel’s structural instability for the recovery of 22 cadavers from various sections,” the PCG Southwestern Mindanao District command said in a statement.
“Despite these conditions, the PCG-TDG systematically searched Deck A, Deck B, the car deck, including vehicles on board, and the engine room, which was penetrated despite oil contamination and scattered debris causing limited visibility,” said Rejard Marfe.
The confirmed death toll in the sinking of MV Trisha Kerstin 3 rose to 65 following the recovery of another body on Sunday. The PCG said 14 people remain missing.
According to Marfe, underwater assessments showed that the vessel was listing to port (left side). Both exposed sides of the hull, including the ramps, remained intact with no visible external fractures.
On the car deck, partially collapsed vehicles leaning toward the left side created additional obstructions that made interior access more challenging.
“While the entire vessel has now been searched, the PCG-TDG will continue diving operations until February 26, 2026, to conduct re-swiping procedures. This is to ensure that no area is left unchecked and to provide assurance to the families awaiting closure,” he noted.
All diving operations were documented through underwater video recordings to support the ongoing investigation.
