Philippine ferry fire death toll rises to 76 as investigation continues
Authorities continued recovery operations and the investigation aboard the MV June Aster in Coron, Palawan on 14 September, as teams worked to search the vessel and recover evidence linked to the incident.
As stated on the latest updates from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the death toll from Philippine ferry fire aboard the MV June Aster has risen to 76, as 41 more bodies have been recovered, with 13 people still missing. The fire engulfed the ferry’s lower decks on evening, just 2.2 kilometres (1.3 miles) from its destination. Rescuers pulled 43 survivors from the water that night.
Furthermore, according to Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab, response teams have completed searches of the vessel’s bridge, crew accommodation areas, economy passenger accommodation and air-conditioned passenger accommodation.
“These areas have been 100% penetrated by our response teams. A secondary sweep will be conducted to ensure the recovery of any remaining evidence and other materials relevant to the ongoing investigation,” Cayabyab said.
Meanwhile, approximately 65% of the vessel’s cargo hold has been accessed, with operations continuing in the remaining sections. Authorities have also been carrying out water-siphoning operations in the vessel’s engine room since 12 September.
The oily water mixture removed from the engine room has so far been transferred into 13 drums for proper handling and disposal.
The PCG has also sent a demand letter to the shipping company, directing it to immediately engage a competent salvor to continue the siphoning operations and assess the MV June Aster’s structural integrity and overall condition.
In parallel with the ongoing recovery efforts, the PCG is preparing to deploy a legal team to assist with matters concerning claims and support for victims and their bereaved families.
“The Coast Guard continues to conduct its maritime safety investigation and maritime crime investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine possible liabilities,” Cayabyab said.
The investigation and recovery operations remain ongoing as authorities work to establish the full circumstances of the incident and identify any potential liabilities.
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