The Office of the Special Assistant to the President (OSAP) has expressed support for an impartial, transparent, and swift investigation into the sinking of M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 in Basilan to ensure full accountability as the fatality count reached 42, as of Monday, February 2, 2026.

In a statement, OSAP said the government’s focus remains on the care of the survivors and the recovery of those still missing as search and rescue operations continue, as of this writing.

“We owe it to the victims and their families to pursue the truth,” SAP Anton Lagdameo said.

Lagdameo said authorities must establish the facts on vessel seaworthiness, passenger capacity, weather conditions, and regulatory compliance prior to the vessel’s trip.

He also called on agencies concerned to review and strengthen maritime safety protocols to ensure that lessons from the tragedy will lead to concrete reforms, stricter enforcement, and stronger safeguards for the traveling public.

Lagdameo said President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. has directed agencies concerned to ensure immediate assistance and swift delivery of support necessary to survivors and bereaved families.

“We stand in solidarity with the grieving families. The government stands ready to extend all possible support and comfort during this difficult time,” Lagdameo added.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that two more bodies were recovered on in the waters off Baluk-Baluk Island on Monday, bringing the total number of fatalities to 42.

PCG retrieved the bodies for identification and proper disposition in coordination with the Basilan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).