Manila, Feb. 4 -- The continued search and rescue operations of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and its partners for those missing after the sinking of M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 resulted in the recovery of two more bodies in waters off Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan on Wednesday.

In a situation report, the PCG said the bodies were recovered through cooperation among government agencies, local government units, and fisherfolk volunteers.

"With this development, the total number of fatalities has increased to 45, while the number of survivors remains at 316," it said.

The remains recovered were still being identified and were being prepared for proper disposition.

The Philippine National Police (PNP), meanwhile, is prioritizing the identific...