Basilan ferry disaster survivors get P5,000 each from DSWD
Survivors are assisted by Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel after a RORO vessel carrying more than 300 individuals sank off Basilan on Jan. 26, 2026, killing at least 15 people. (Photo courtesy of PCG)
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has provided financial assistance to the rescued passengers and families of those who died in the capsizing of MV Trisha Kerstin 3 in Basilan on Monday, Jan. 26.
Through its Zamboanga Peninsula Field Office, DSWD reported that 134 survivors received P5,000 each in medical aid, while two families of the deceased were given P10,000 burial assistance under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program.
“DSWD extended financial aid to survivors and families of the deceased to help address their immediate needs, alongside the distribution of ready-to-eat food boxes to ensure families temporarily staying at Isabela City Port have enough to eat,” DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said in Filipino on Tuesday, Jan. 27.
Within 24 hours of the incident, DSWD distributed 137 halal-certified ready-to-eat food packs.
Social workers were also deployed to Zamboanga and Isabela ports to conduct stress debriefing sessions and assessment and profiling of the survivors.
“In the midst of tragedy, immediate assistance is crucial—not just in food but also emotional and mental support. DSWD continues coordinating with local government and other agencies to ensure uninterrupted aid and that no one is left behind,” Gatchalian said.
The DSWD said it will continue close coordination with the local government of Basilan and Philippine Coast Guard to monitor the situation and provide additional support until all affected individuals have safely recovered.