Philippine ferry carrying over 350 people sinks, at least 15 dead

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Associated PressJanuary 26, 2026 at 03:18 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

A Philippine ferry, the MV Trisha Kerstin 3, carrying over 350 people sank early Monday morning near Baluk-baluk Island in Basilan province. The inter-island ferry, traveling from Zamboanga to Jolo island with 332 passengers and 27 crew members, reportedly encountered technical problems. As of Monday, rescuers had saved at least 316 people and recovered 15 bodies. The Philippine Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, and local fishing boats are conducting search and rescue operations in the area. The ferry sank in good weather approximately one nautical mile from the island.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

AFP 40% Zamboanga 60% Baluk-baluk 60% Sulu province 60% Romel Dua ×270% Jolo Island 70% Basilan province ×270% MV Trisha Kerstin 3 ×380% Philippine Coast Guard ×280% Philippines ×290%

Keywords

ferry sinking 100% mv trisha kerstin 3 90% search and rescue 80% coastguard 70% maritime disaster 70% philippines 70% inter-island ferry 60% casualties 60% technical problems 50%