A passenger ferry carrying 300+ people sank off Basilan province early Monday, January 26, 2026, triggering a massive search operation. The Philippine Coast Guard confirms 13 fatalities and 200+ rescued so far, with conflicting casualty reports from local officials.
Why This Keeps Happening
🇵🇭 The Philippines' island geography makes ferries essential but dangerous. Chronic issues like stormy weather, aging ships, and overcrowding plague the system. This latest disaster echoes the 1987 Dona Paz sinking that killed 4,300 – a grim reminder of unresolved safety gaps.
What's Next?
Coast Guard helicopters and naval ships continue combing the waters near Hadji Muhtamad. Survivors are being treated for hypothermia and injuries. Families await news at Basilan ports as social media becomes a crucial info hub 📱💔
