File photo for reference only

A roll-on/roll-off (RORO) vessel, M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, sank early Monday near Basilan, leading to the deaths of at least 18 individuals, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported. The ship, operated by Aleson Shipping, was on its way to Jolo, Sulu and submerged around 1:50 a.m. approximately 2.75 nautical miles northeast of Baluk-Baluk Island. Of the 359 people on board, 317 have been rescued, while 24 remain missing as rescue operations continue.

The vessel departed from the Port of Zamboanga City at 9:20 p.m. the previous day, carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members, and was within its authorized passenger capacity. A PCG sea marshal was on board during the incident. The PCG quickly deployed BRP Tubbataha (MRRV-4401) from Zamboanga City following the distress call to reinforce ongoing search and rescue (SAR) operations, assisted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, commercial vessels, and local authorities.

PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab confirmed the numbers of survivors and casualties, noting that ongoing efforts complicate validation. Aerial searches are being conducted to locate the missing individuals. The sea condition, described as rough with tall waves by survivors, is being examined as a possible factor, though a formal maritime casualty investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.

Looking ahead, the priority remains focused on search and rescue operations, with continuous collaboration from multiple agencies to ensure the safety of any remaining survivors. The PCG confirmed that no oil spill has been observed, mitigating further environmental concerns. Updates will continue as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available, reported Manila Bulletin.

Key Takeaway

• A RORO vessel sank near Basilan, resulting in 18 deaths and 24 missing.

• The ship was within its authorized capacity when it departed from Zamboanga City.

• Rough sea conditions are being investigated as a possible factor in the sinking.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2026-01-23

 

 

@admin your link(s) are not working..linking to different articles..

This is still true 13 or so hours later. There is an unformatted link at the beginning that is somewhat faint.

Terry just south of Hua Hin...

Thanks for your posted pointing out the issue. All I keep seeing is "RORO Vessel Sinks ..." no matter what article I "click on".

Are they sleeping by 'aseannow'?

This is for more than 2 days now.