UAE expresses solidarity with Philippines over ferry accident

The UAE has expressed its solidarity with the Philippines following the ferry that capsized off the southern Philippine province of Basilan, killing at least 18 with several others reported missing.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) expressed its sincere condolences and sympathy to the victims' families, the government and the people of the Philippines over this tragedy.

UAE Expresses Solidarity with the Philippines and Conveys Condolences over Ferry Accidenthttps://t.co/9gzUXVE5in pic.twitter.com/by2JTpmwPL

— MoFA وزارة الخارجية (@mofauae) January 26, 2026

The accident occurred at 1:50 am (1750 GMT) on Monday while the passenger vessel, MV Trisha Kerstin 3, was en route to Jolo in Sulu province after departing from Zamboanga, according to Reuters. 

The number of rescued passengers remained at 316 as of Tuesday.