Philippine authorities reported on Thursday that at least five people have died and 87 remain unaccounted for following a fire on the MV June Aster in the province of Palawan. The incident occurred Wednesday evening approximately 2.2 kilometers (1.3 miles) off the coast of Coron, the municipality the ferry was en route to after departing from Baseco in Manila.
The Philippine Coast Guard confirmed that 42 individuals were rescued, comprising 38 passengers and four crew members. However, the vessel’s manifest indicated a total of 134 people were onboard, including 117 passengers and 17 crew members. This discrepancy has left 87 people missing.
Coast Guard Captain Noemi Cayabyab stated during a press briefing that while current figures stand at 42 rescued and five confirmed dead, the numbers are subject to change as search and rescue operations continue.
Video footage released by the Coast Guard depicted the ferry completely engulfed in flames, with rescuers bringing bodies ashore in body bags. Volunteer fisherfolk were also seen assisting survivors in the aftermath of the disaster.
Another tragedy in Palawan. When will safety regulations actually change?
How many more passengers were unlisted? This discrepancy is terrifying.
Praying for the 87 missing. Please God, let them be found alive.