At Least 15 Killed After Ferry Capsizes in Philippines

A passenger ferry carrying more than 350 people capsized and sank early Monday off the southern Philippine province of Basilan, killing at least 15 people and leaving dozens missing as rescue teams race to find survivors.

The MV Trisha Kerstin 3, a roll-on/roll-off ferry, was en route from Zamboanga City to Jolo Island in Sulu province when it went down shortly after midnight local time, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said. The vessel was carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members, within its authorised capacity, when it issued a distress call.

Rescuers have so far saved at least 316 people, but 28 remain missing, officials said. The coast guard, navy and air force have deployed ships, aircraft and helicopters to assist in the search and rescue operation near Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan province.

Coast Guard Commander Romel Dua said calmer sea conditions have helped with rescue efforts, but authorities are continuing their search, hoping to reach those still unaccounted for. An investigation has been launched into the cause of the accident.

Survivors rescued from the water have been taken to nearby ports and medical facilities for treatment, with some elderly and injured passengers receiving emergency care.

Maritime incidents are unfortunately common in the Philippines, an archipelagic nation where ferry travel is vital but often challenged by factors such as ageing vessels, maintenance issues and enforcement gaps in safety standards, particularly in distant regions.