Baluk-Baluk Island, Basilan – The Philippine Coast Guard technical divers carried out underwater operations on the sunken MV Trisha Kerstin 3 in nearby waters on February 10, 2026.

At 6 AM, the Technical Diving Group held a pre-dive briefing to go over safety protocols, mission goals, and dive conditions.

Four trained divers then began search and rescue work at an estimated depth of 180 feet, concentrating on the ship’s first-deck economy accommodation section.

During the dive, five cadavers were recovered from the wreck.

The remains were secured and transferred to Zamboanga City Port for identification and proper handling, working alongside the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

The Coast Guard said underwater efforts are continuing, with emphasis on diver safety, discipline, and respect for the victims and their families.

Authorities confirmed that the sinking of MV Trisha Kerstin 3 has resulted in 51 fatalities and 316 survivors as of today.

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