At least 18 people were killed and 24 remain missing after a ferry carrying more than 350 passengers sank early Monday off the southern coast of the Philippines. The vessel, named MV Trisha Kerstin-3, sent a distress signal at 1:50 a.m. local time, about four hours after departing from Zamboanga City on Mindanao Island. The three-deck ferry went down roughly five kilometers east of Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan province. The Philippine Coast Guard reported rescuing at least 317 people, while search and rescue operations continue.

Videos released by the Basilan governor showed survivors being carried on stretchers and wrapped in blankets, while bodies were removed in body bags. Coast Guard spokesperson Noemi Cayabyab said the sea was extremely rough at the time of the accident. Local rescue officials reported manpower shortages as they treated the injured, with at least 18 people hospitalized. The Coast Guard has ordered a maritime investigation but said rescue efforts remain the top priority.

The ferry was owned by Aleson Shipping Lines, which also operated a vessel that caught fire on the same route in 2023, killing 31 people. The company said it is coordinating with authorities and expressed concern for all aboard.