A full underwater search of the sunken MV Trisha Kerstin 3 was completed on Monday, February 23, 2026, after 27 days of high-risk technical deep-water wreck diving operations in the waters off Baluk-Baluk Island, Basilan.

According to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), its technical divers recovered a total of 22 cadavers from various sections of the vessel since January 28, 2026.

“Since January 28, 2026, PCG technical divers have worked through strong underwater currents, near-zero visibility due to heavy siltation, submerged hazards, and the vessel’s structural instability for the recovery of 22 cadavers from various sections,” Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao (CGDSWM) Commander, Commodore Rejard Marfe PCG, said.

“Despite these conditions, the PCG-TDG systematically searched Deck A, Deck B, the car deck, including vehicles on board, and the engine room, which was penetrated despite oil contamination and scattered debris causing limited visibility,” he added.

PCG added that underwater assessments showed that the vessel is currently listing to port (left side). Both exposed sections of the hull, including the ramps, remain intact with no visible external fractures.

On the car deck, several vehicles had partially collapsed and were leaning toward the left side, creating additional obstructions and making interior access more challenging.

Although the entire vessel has been searched, PCG divers will continue diving operations until February 26, 2026, to conduct re-swiping procedures, ensure that no area is left unchecked, and provide assurance to the families awaiting closure.

PCG said all diving operations were documented through underwater video recordings to support the ongoing investigation.

As of February 22, 2026, PCG recorded 65 fatalities, 293 survivors, and 14 missing individuals.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has said that based on the number of recovered bodies, rescued passengers, and those still missing, overloading may have contributed to the tragedy.

The DOTr has said it is preparing to file administrative cases against Aleson Shipping Lines, which owns the vessel, to cancel and revoke its Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC).

The agency has also said three officers of the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) were directly involved in the issuance of the vessel's safety certificates.

Meanwhile, six Coast Guard personnel were earlier placed under preventive suspension as the PCG conducts separate investigations into the sinking and other possible violations.

The vessel departed Zamboanga City for Jolo, Sulu evening on January 25 but sank in Basilan waters the next day.