At least four members of the Philippine Coast Guard were dismissed from service for the sinking of MV Trisha Kerstin 3 in Basilan waters on February 14, 2026.

Administrative proceedings found these PCG personnel liable for the maritime incident.

Four enlisted personnel who were part of the pre-departure inspection team were dismissal without honor for failing to conduct an independent verification of the actual passenger count and the proper documentation of the vessel’s “load line markings,” which are crucial steps in ensuring a safe voyage.

The officer who served as duty officer watch was demoted by one rank for failing to exercise the required diligence in the performance of his duties.

The station commander and acting station commander of Zamboanga were also suspended for one year without pay and were ordered to undergo mandatory retraining on proper ship inspection standards, effective supervision of PDI teams, and operational management.

PCG spokesperson, Capt. Noemie Cayabyab, said the agency maintained that it does not tolerate violations of maritime safety.

She said PCG will continue to strengthen inspection mechanisms, supervision, and personnel training to ensure public safety at sea and improve public service.

Cayabyab said although underwater operations concluded on Thursday, February 26, 2026, maritime patrols will continue and coordination with fishermen and cooperation with authorities will also be sustained to help the affected families seek justice and to improve maritime public transportation safety.

After completing the re-sweep of the sunken vessel on Thursday, divers reported that no additional trapped victims were found.

PCG has recorded 65 fatalities, 293 survivors, and 14 individuals still missing.