The death toll from the sinking of the passenger ferry MV Trisha Kerstin 3 has increased to 40, according to the latest update from the Philippine Coast Guard.

The vessel sank in waters off Basilan while traveling from Zamboanga City to Jolo. Search and retrieval operations remain ongoing as authorities continue to locate missing passengers.

Rescue teams composed of coast guard personnel, navy units, and local volunteers have so far saved hundreds of passengers and crew members. Recovered victims have been brought to nearby hospitals and mortuaries for proper identification, while families of those affected are receiving assistance from government agencies.

Maritime authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident to determine its cause, including possible safety violations and discrepancies in the vessel’s passenger manifest. As a precautionary measure, operations of vessels under the same shipping company have been temporarily suspended pending inspection.

Officials reiterated their commitment to strengthening maritime safety measures and ensuring accountability to prevent similar tragedies in the future.