The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has grounded the entire passenger vessel fleet of Aleson Shipping Lines following Monday’s sinking of M/V Trishia Kerstin 3 off Basilan that left 18 people dead and 10 others missing. At yesterday’s briefing in this city, acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez issued the 10-day suspension order. A safety audit and inspection of the company’s passenger vessels will be conducted by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Maritime Industry Authority (Marina).

Macairan, E., Cariaso, B., Clapano, J. R., Tupas, E., Porcalla, D., & Boton, C. (2026, January 28). Shipping firm’s fleet grounded over sinking. The Philippine Star, pp. 1, 4.