ROMOROS
ZAMBOANGA CITY – The death toll from the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 sinking climbed to 62 on Tuesday, Feb. 17, after the body of Shariah Court Judge Alberto Romoros and three more bodies were found in the vessel wreckage by Philippine Coast Guard divers.
This was confirmed by Atty. Aquino Sajili, a survivor of the tragedy, who stated that the family identified him through his watch.
The recovery of Romoros' body marks a somber moment for his family and the community as they grapple with the loss of a respected figure in the Shariah Court. His family has traveled to Zamboanga to be with their loved ones.
Days prior to the discovery of Romoros’ remains, the bodies of boat apprentice Kyle Punsalang and Sgt. Wendel Sabuyas were found in the boat wreckage.
They were lauded as heroes by survivors who said they helped other passengers and crew members with their life vests while being exposed to the impending dangers of the listing vessel.
The PCG said 293 persons survived the maritime disaster while 17 are still missing.