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Philippine Coast Guard Rescues 43 Survivors from Burning Ferry MV June Aster

Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Noemie Cayabyab reported that rescue teams have successfully recovered 43 survivors from the MV June Aster, a passenger ferry that caught fire off the coast of Palawan. The vessel departed from Manila and was bound for Coron when the fire broke out on Wednesday evening. Rescuers faced significant challenges boarding the ship due to thick smoke and extreme heat. After successfully entering the hull, teams identified at least 35 fatalities, with 54 people still unaccounted for. The vessel was carrying 130 people and various goods, including an electric vehicle and motorcycles. Preliminary reports from survivors suggest the fire may have started in the cargo hold following two successive explosions. Many passengers were forced to jump into the sea without life jackets. The Philippine Coast Guard is currently conducting a comprehensive investigation into the incident, while the operator, Atienza Interisland Ferries Inc, is cooperating with the inquiry.

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