Manila: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has announced a series of disciplinary measures against several of its personnel following a thorough investigation into the sinking of the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 passenger ferry in Basilan. The actions include dismissals, suspensions, and mandatory retraining aimed at reinforcing adherence to safety protocols.
According to Philippines News Agency, the investigation was conducted by the Coast Guard Inspector General and Internal Affairs Service (CGIG-IAS). As a result, four enlisted personnel from the Pre-Departure Inspection (PDI) Team responsible for overseeing MV Trisha Kerstin 3 were dismissed without honor. The personnel, identified as Petty Officer (PO) 1 Sabhal Turaini, PO3 Khalid Asmawil, PO3 Al-Yazar Muyong, and ASW Mar-Iya Anawie, failed to independently verify the actual number of passengers and properly document the ferry's load line markings, which are crucial for ensuring safe operations.
Additionally, PO3 Jestoni Barretto, who was on Duty Office Watch during the incident, received a one-rank demotion due to neglecting his responsibilities. Furthermore, Lieutenant Commander Tristan Jener Erediano and acting Station Commander Lieutenant Jason Pagbonocan of the PCG Zamboanga Station were suspended without pay for one year and ordered to undergo retraining on ship inspection regulations and effective supervision of PDI teams.
PCG Spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab emphasized the importance of compliance with safety regulations in a statement, highlighting the agency's commitment to improving inspection mechanisms, management, and personnel training to ensure public safety at sea.
In addition to the disciplinary actions, the PCG Technical Diving Group conducted a final underwater inspection at the site of the sunken MV Trisha Kerstin 3 near Baluk-Baluk Island. Despite the comprehensive search by five technical divers, no additional bodies were recovered. The PCG has reported 65 fatalities, 293 survivors, and 14 individuals still missing, based on joint validation efforts with other local agencies and affected families.
