Philippines: 18 dead after ferry carrying 300 passengers sinks
BBC News1 day
At Least 18 Dead as Philippine Ferry Carrying Over 350 Sinks
Was the ferry disaster an unavoidable tragedy or the result of chronic safety failures and negligence?
Above: Teams are seen on the harbor after a ferry sank off in Basilan, Philippines, on Jan. 26, 2026. Image credit: DSWD Field Office IX-Zamboanga Peninsula/Anadolu/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,100 islands, has a long record of deadly inter-island ferry disasters, often linked to poor maintenance and overloading. Ferries remain popular due to low costs. However, this accident, Aleson's second major tragedy in three years, should serve as a wake-up call.
Narrative B
Aleson Shipping Lines responded swiftly to the emergency, activating quick-response measures and deploying all available vessels. The company worked tirelessly in close coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard and other authorities throughout search-and-rescue operations.
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© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.0