EDITORIAL — Deadly overloadingSkepticism greeted the announcement of the Philippine Coast Guard that the roll on-roll off vessel Trisha Kerstin 3 was not overloaded when it set sail for Jolo, Sulu on the night of Jan. 25 from the Zamboanga City port. PCG personnel said the vessel had 332 passengers and 27 crew members – still within its authorized capacity. As of yesterday, 65 bodies had been found, with 14 people still missing, while 293 were recorded as survivors. The entire fleet of Aleson Shipping Lines, owner of the Trisha Kerstin 3, has been grounded. The DOTr is also investigating three officers of the Maritime Industry Authority behind the issuance of safety certificates to the Trisha Kerstin 3.

Source: Philippine Star February 23, 2026 01:00 UTC