‘Trisha Kerstin 3 overloaded’

February 12, 2026 | 12:00am

Marina, PCG execs sacked

MANILA, Philippines — The chief of the Maritime Industry Authority in Zamboanga peninsula and seven other officials of the Marina and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) have been relieved from their posts after investigation showed the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 was carrying passengers and cargo beyond the vessel’s capacity

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni Lopez directed Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan to file administrative charges against Marina-Zamboanga peninsula director Jedini Nur Sibal, shipping operations specialist Bevin Bibi and shipbuilding specialist II Jose Ray Quimiguing for neglect of duty.

“If investigation would show that they committed gross neglect of duty, we will not hesitate to file criminal cases against them for possible violation of Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act,” Lopez said.

Also relieved were five PCG members who conducted a pre-departure inspection of the Trisha Kerstin 3.

The chief of the PCG’s Zamboanga Station will reportedly be removed from his post based on command responsibility.

Meanwhile, the operator of the vessel, Aleson Shipping Lines (ASL), is facing charges for negligence and safety lapses.

Lopez said the vessel was allowed to sail despite glaring safety deficiencies in its passenger capacity and seaworthiness certifications, and drydock/repair compliance.

The DOTr ordered the MARINA to file an administrative case against ASL and determine whether or not to revoke the company’s franchise.

An administrative case may also be filed against the crewmembers who survived when the vessel sank in the waters off Baluk-baluk Island in Basilan.

Lopez gave assurance that the DOTr would prioritize the investigation in line with a directive of President Marcos to swiftly deliver justice .

Another body retrieved

The number of confirmed fatalities in the sinking increased to 52 yesterday after another body was retrieved from the sunken vessel.

Technical divers of the PCG recovered a female body at 7:15 a.m., in the general accommodation section of the Trisha Kerstin 3.

The body was refloated and retrieved by members of the PCG onboard the BRP Melchora Aquino. It was immediately transported to Zamboanga City for identification and burial.

PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab said the number of survivors has been adjusted to 293 from 316 previously after verification was conducted on the passenger manifest. — Josiah Antonio, Roel Pareño, Evelyn Macairan