Philippines ferry disaster kills 15; dozens still missing in rescue search
“At least 15 people died after a ferry accident in the southern Philippines, with 316 rescued and 28 still missing.”
Key points
- At least 15 people died after a ferry accident in the southern Philippines, with 316 rescued and 28 still missing.
- Authorities have launched an investigation as the Coast Guard and military continue search operations.
A passenger ferry accident in the southern Philippines has claimed at least 15 lives, while rescue teams continue searching for people still unaccounted for, according to the Philippine Coast Guard.
Officials said 316 passengers were pulled to safety, but 28 remained missing as operations continued in relatively calm waters. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday as the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 was travelling toward Jolo in Sulu province after departing Zamboanga.
Coast Guard officials said the vessel was operating within its authorised capacity and carried hundreds of passengers along with its crew. A Coast Guard commander overseeing the response said a formal investigation has been launched to determine what caused the accident.
The Philippine military deployed aircraft and vessels to support search-and-rescue efforts. Local authorities shared footage from the port showing survivors being brought ashore, some treated for exposure and others transported on stretchers. Officials said passenger records were being verified while medical teams focused on those needing urgent care.
Deadly ferry incidents occur regularly in the Philippines, an archipelago where sea travel is essential and maritime safety enforcement has often been criticised after major accidents.
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