Five Dead, Over 80 Missing in Philippines Ferry Fire
At least five people have died and more than 80 remain missing after a passenger ferry caught fire off Palawan in the western Philippines, triggering a major search-and-rescue operation near the popular tourist destination of Coron.
MV June Aster Catches Fire Near Coron
The MV June Aster was travelling from Manila to Coron when the fire broke out on Wednesday evening, approximately 2.2 kilometres offshore.
The Philippine Coast Guard said the vessel’s official manifest listed 134 people on board, comprising 117 passengers and 17 crew members.
Images from the scene showed large flames and thick smoke engulfing the ferry as rescue boats approached the burning vessel.
Five Dead as Search for Missing Passengers Continues
At least five deaths have been confirmed, while 43 people have been rescued. Based on the manifest and the latest casualty figures, more than 80 passengers and crew members remain unaccounted for.
Authorities cautioned that the numbers could change as rescuers gather additional information and locate survivors.
The Coast Guard, military personnel, private vessels and local fishermen have joined the rescue operation. Strong currents and difficult sea conditions have complicated efforts, while the burning vessel drifted away from its initial location.
Cause of Philippines Ferry Fire Under Investigation
The cause of the blaze has not yet been established. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fire alongside the ferry operator and maritime officials.
Extreme heat, smoke and concerns over possible explosions have also restricted rescuers’ ability to enter parts of the damaged vessel.
Ferries remain an essential means of transportation across the Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands. The latest disaster is expected to renew scrutiny of maritime safety as the search for those still missing continues.
