The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has released its decision on the sinking of M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 on February 24, 2026, following a thorough investigation by the Coast Guard Inspector General–Internal Affairs Service.

In the results of the administrative proceedings, four enlisted personnel who were part of the Pre-Departure Inspection (PDI) Team were meted the penalty of “dismissal without honor.” The investigation found that they failed to conduct an independent verification of the actual number of passengers on board and did not properly document the vessel’s load line markings—critical safety indicators that determine whether a ship is overloaded.

Meanwhile, Duty Officer Watch PO3 Jestoni Barretto was demoted by one rank for negligence in the performance of his duties. Two senior officers—LCDR Tristan Jener Erediano and LT Jason Pagbonocan, who served as Station Commander and Acting Station Commander in Zamboanga—were suspended for one year without pay. They were also ordered to undergo mandatory retraining on ship inspection standards and supervision of PDI teams.

PCG Spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab stressed that the Coast Guard does not tolerate violations of maritime safety standards and will intensify inspection protocols and personnel training to prevent similar incidents.

While underwater operations by the PCG Technical Diving Group are set to conclude, maritime patrols and coordination with concerned agencies and coastal communities will continue as part of ongoing response and monitoring efforts related to the incident.