28 dead, two hundred missing in Philippine ferry disaster – World News
Philippines Ferry Sinks Overnight, Leaving Dozens Hurt and Families Searching for Answers
A heartbreaking maritime tragedy unfolded in the southern Philippines early Monday, when a ferry carrying more than 350 people sank near Basilan province, leaving at least 15 people dead and hundreds rescued.
According to officials, the ferry — M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 — went down shortly after midnight while traveling from Zamboanga City to Jolo Island in Sulu province. On board were 332 passengers and 27 crew members, many of them families returning home.
What Happened to the Ferry?
The vessel reportedly encountered technical problems before sinking about one nautical mile off the village of Baluk-baluk, despite calm weather conditions at the time. This detail has raised serious questions, as rough seas were not a factor.
A coast guard safety officer on board was able to send out an emergency alert, triggering an immediate rescue response. “He was the first to call and alert us,” said Coast Guard Commander Romel Dua, noting that the officer survived the incident.
Massive Rescue Operation Saves Hundreds
Rescue teams moved quickly. Coast guard and navy ships, a surveillance aircraft, an air force Black Hawk helicopter, and even local fishing boats joined the overnight operation.
By Monday morning:
- 316 passengers had been rescued
- At least 15 bodies were recovered
- Survivors were taken to Basilan villages and the provincial capital, Isabela
Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman, who was present at the pier, confirmed receiving dozens of survivors. “Unfortunately, two are dead,” he said, as ambulances waited nearby.
Was the Ferry Overloaded?
Officials stressed that overloading was not observed before departure. The coast guard had cleared the vessel in Zamboanga, and an investigation is now underway to determine the exact cause of the sinking.
This inquiry will focus on:
- Possible mechanical failure
- Vessel maintenance records
- Emergency preparedness on board
Why Sea Accidents Are Common in the Philippines
Sadly, ferry accidents are not uncommon in the Philippines — an archipelago of over 7,600 islands where sea travel is essential.
Experts point to recurring issues such as:
- Aging or poorly maintained vessels
- Weak enforcement of safety rules
- Overcrowding on regional routes
- Sudden weather changes in remote areas
The tragedy also revives memories of the 1987 Doña Paz disaster, the world’s deadliest peacetime maritime accident, which claimed more than 4,300 lives.
A Tragedy That Demands Accountability
As families mourn and survivors recover, the focus now shifts to accountability and safety reforms. Each sea accident renews the call for stronger maritime oversight — a necessity in a country where ferries remain a lifeline for millions.
For now, the nation watches closely as rescue efforts conclude and investigators search for answers behind yet another preventable tragedy at sea.
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