Zamboanga city: Special permits have been issued to various shipping lines to cover the routes typically operated by Aleson Shipping Lines (ALS), whose passenger fleet is currently grounded. This grounding comes as an audit and investigation are underway following the sinking of MV Trisha Kerstin 3.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) announced that other shipping lines, which have passed safety regulations, will temporarily serve these routes. The covered routes include those originating from Zamboanga City to Isabela City, Siasi, Sulu, Jolo, Sulu, and Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. Additionally, routes from Pulauan, Dapitan City to Dumaguete City, and vice versa, as well as Dumaguete City to Siquijor/Larena and vice versa, will be taken over by other shipping lines.

DOTr also mentioned plans to issue a permit for a shipping line to operate on the Zamboanga-Lamitan City route and vice versa. In response to potential passenger stranding or a lack of ships on these routes, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has been designated to provide free rides. The PCG has deployed BRP Capones to facilitate free maritime travel between Zamboanga City and Lamitan City in Basilan, with priority given to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, and children.

Passengers interested in free PCG rides can register at the PCG Station Zamboanga. Up to 80 passengers are allowed to register, with transportation to the PCG ship provided by truck. Passengers must present a valid ID or other identification documents.

Meanwhile, MARINA Regional Office 9 reported no stranded passengers at the Zamboanga City Port. Approximately 50 passengers with valid tickets are waiting for later voyages aboard MV Prince Glory and MV Ever Queen of Asia, which are bound for Jolo, Sulu.