Authorities have announced that the families of the victims in the Basilan tragedy have been allocated ₱200,000 insurance compensation. This announcement has reopened the discussion about whether the amount is sufficient for the loved ones left behind by the victims.
According to the report, more than 18 people died, more than 300 passengers were rescued, and 10 more are missing after the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 sank in the waters of Basilan. The survivors were also given ₱50,000 emergency assistance in accordance with the existing insurance policy.
During the Senate hearing, it was questioned whether ₱200,000 truly equals the value of a human life. It was pointed out that the said amount may not be enough for funeral expenses, and the loss of the main breadwinner.
The agency representative agreed that the benefits are low and acknowledged the need to revise the insurance policy to be more humane and fair to victims of maritime disasters.
Meanwhile, the concerned agencies have conducted a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the sinking. Reports of a previous incident involving the same company have also surfaced, once again putting the spotlight on the safety of maritime travel in the country.
