The Department of Transportation has ordered the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to allow other shipping lines to ply the routes of Aleson Shipping Lines Inc., following the tragic sinking of the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 in Basilan on Monday. The move is to ensure the continuous and safe travel of passengers on the said route.
According to Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the safety of areas served by Zamboanga City-based Aleson Shipping. At the same time, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and MARINA are conducting a comprehensive inspection and safety audit of all the company's ships.
The MV Trisha Kerstin 3 sank in Basilan with 344 passengers and crew — 18 confirmed dead and 10 missing. Despite the tragedy, the PCG continues to conduct rescue operations using technical divers and remotely operated vehicles to find the missing people.
Sen. Raffy Tulfo, chair of the Senate Committee on Public Services, criticized MARINA for why Aleson Shipping is still operating despite reports of accidents since 2019. Meanwhile, MARINA assured that there are help desks at Aleson Shipping so that victims can immediately get their insurance claims.
To address the shortage of vessels, PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab said they will use 44-meter vessels for free rides on routes affected by the audit and inspection. So far, more than 316 passengers have been rescued from the sunken ferry. This move is aimed at maintaining public confidence and safety in sea transportation.
