Photo courtesy of Provincial Government of Basilan.
Technical divers and a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) are now in action to search for passengers still missing from the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, which sank off Basilan, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported Wednesday.
The deployment is intended to pinpoint the vessel and recover those unaccounted for, according to PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab.
“PCG technical divers were dispatched to conduct underwater search operations in identified areas of interest, while the ROV was employed to assist in deep-water inspections and enhance search capabilities in areas that pose risks to human divers,” Cayabyab said.
The agency noted that the ROV allows surveys in submerged locations with limited visibility and difficult sea conditions, minimizing risks to personnel.
Information gathered through the underwater technology helps guide search efforts and operational decisions, ensuring resources are used efficiently, the PCG added.
Authorities reported that the death toll from the ferry tragedy has risen to 19, with 316 survivors rescued and 10 passengers still missing. The vessel departed Zamboanga City on Sunday for Jolo, Sulu, but sank in Basilan waters on Monday.
Following the incident, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has grounded the fleet of Aleson Shipping Lines while a maritime safety audit is conducted, as officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the sinking.
