Death toll rises to 35 as rescue efforts continue
The Philippine Coast Guard confirmed that 35 people have lost their lives in the fire that broke out on the MV June Aster near Coron on Wednesday. The 30 bodies recovered from the wreckage brought the death count to 35.
At the time of departure, the vessel carried 117 passengers and 17 crew members, totalling 134 people. Forty‑three passengers were rescued and many received medical treatment, while searches continue for more than 50 individuals who remain unaccounted for. Rescue teams could not board the vessel until Friday because of toxic fumes and lingering heat.
Coast‑guard officials said preliminary interviews suggest the fire started in the cargo hold, and some passengers were not wearing life vests. A survivor recounted being trampled by panicked passengers as he tried to escape.
The Philippine Maritime Authority is investigating the incident, looking at manifest discrepancies, cargo loading integrity and crew emergency response protocols. The MV June Aster, built in 2002, held valid safety certificates and passed an enforcement inspection in March.
Operator Atienza Interisland Ferries pledged full cooperation with the inquiry and expressed deep sorrow. "Our hearts remain with the affected families, and we will not rest until all individuals are accounted for," the company said in a statement. The tragedy underscores the importance of stringent safety oversight on ferries operating in popular tourist destinations.
