ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — The death toll from the ferry accident off the coast of Basilan has risen to 31, after authorities recovered additional bodies during ongoing search and retrieval operations. Officials said efforts remain focused on locating those still unaccounted for while providing assistance to grieving families.
The passenger vessel sank while traveling through rough waters in the waters near Basilan, triggering a large-scale emergency response involving the Philippine Coast Guard, local disaster teams, and volunteer fishermen. Survivors were rescued in the hours following the incident, but search teams have continued combing nearby areas as bodies surfaced in surrounding waters.
According to authorities, the latest victims were recovered during extended search operations conducted amid challenging sea conditions. The remains have been brought to proper facilities for identification, with officials coordinating closely with families and local government units to ensure dignified handling and proper documentation.
The tragedy has sparked renewed concerns over maritime safety, particularly for passenger vessels operating in inter-island routes. Officials are now reviewing the circumstances surrounding the sinking, including weather conditions, vessel capacity, and safety protocols, as part of a broader investigation into the incident.
As recovery efforts continue, government agencies have pledged support for affected families, including financial aid and counseling services. Authorities said the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of strict enforcement of maritime safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.–Cali Demi
