The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Wednesday, January 28, that it will deploy technical divers and utilize a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) as it intensifies its search and rescue (SAR) operations for the missing passengers of MV Trisha Kerstin 3 in the waters off Basilan.

PCG Spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab stated that the deployment is part of the PCG’s continued efforts to locate the vessel and its remaining missing passengers, saying, “PCG Technical Divers were dispatched to conduct underwater search operations in identified areas of interest, while the ROV was employed to assist in deep-water inspections and enhance search capabilities in areas that pose risks to human divers.”

Moreover, the agency said that the use of advanced underwater technology enables them to safely and effectively survey submerged areas with little visibility, including challenging and unpredictable sea conditions.

In an update, Cayabyab announced that the casualties from the sunken roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel climbed to 18. Meanwhile, 316 passengers have been rescued so far, while 10 people remain missing.

Eight of the 10 individuals are crew members, including the ship's captain.

The DOTr had also ordered the immediate grounding of Aleson Shipping Lines' entire passenger fleet, the company that owns the sunken vessel. The agency also directed the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to conduct a comprehensive maritime safety audit of the said company’s entire domestic fleet within 10 days.