Basilan ferry sinking death toll climbs to 40

National

THE death toll from the sinking of ferry MV Trisha Kerstin 3 off Basilan has risen to 40 after authorities recovered three more bodies on Sunday, Feb. 1, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.

Among the fatalities was Seaman First Class Alkhaizar Hadjail, a Coast Guard personnel who was aboard the vessel when it sank. Survivors said Hadjail helped maintain order and prevented passengers from jumping overboard as the ferry went down.

He was last seen wearing a life vest but was later found without one, prompting authorities to believe he may have given it to another passenger. Hadjail had boarded the ferry while en route to Jolo, where he was scheduled to report for duty the following day.

“Our fallen Coast Guard personnel will always be remembered for his selfless dedication and commitment to public service, exemplifying courage and professionalism in the line of duty,” PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab said, as quoted by The Philippine Star.

The number of survivors remains at 316. Authorities confirmed that among the casualties were a four-months-pregnant woman and her daughter, identified as Dernalyn Muarip and Sharfa Muarip, as well as NGO worker Reckmar Abtong.

Abtong was a former president of the Junior Chamber International in Sulu and was actively involved in development work in the Bangsamoro region.

The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) is investigating possible violations by Aleson Shipping Lines, the ferry operator.

Marina spokesperson Luisito delos Santos said survivors reported that they were initially scheduled to board a different vessel on January 25, not Trisha Kerstin 3, and claimed there were insufficient life vests on board.

The Marina emphasized that the number of functional life vests must always correspond to a vessel’s authorized passenger capacity, warning that confirmed violations could result in serious charges. (Adriane Josef E. Cabase, USJ-R Comm Intern)