Five Dead, 87 Missing After Ferry Fire in Philippines
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A passenger ferry caught fire off the coast of Coron in Palawan province, Philippines, on Wednesday night, killing at least five passengers and leaving 87 more missing. The event occurred on the MV June Aster, which was going from Manila to the popular tourist resort of Coron.
The boat carried 134 persons, including 117 passengers and 17 crew members, according to the Philippine Coast Guard. So far, 42–43 people have been rescued, with five fatalities reported. Authorities have emphasised that the figures may change as search and rescue activities continue.
The fire apparently started around 6:45 p.m. local time, as the yacht was travelling near Coron. The fire was eventually extinguished, but the ship remained shrouded in dense smoke. Rescue workers encountered harsh weather, heavy waves, and sea currents, complicating efforts to identify those who remain missing.
The cause of the fire has yet to be determined. The Philippine Coast Guard is collaborating with the shipping business and maritime authorities as an inquiry begins.
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