In brief
The MV June Aster ferry caught fire on Wednesday near Coron, Philippines, killing 76 and leaving 13 people unaccounted for. The Philippine Coast Guard has recovered 41 bodies, bringing the death toll to 76, and reported 43 survivors, many hospitalized. The blaze is believed to have started in a cargo hold and spread rapidly, hampering rescue efforts until Friday due to toxic fumes and heat. Investigators are examining cargo loading, crew response and possible manifest discrepancies. Families are assisting with identification through personal items and DNA tests as the ferry operator cooperates with the inquiry.
Philippines ferry fire tragedy: 76 deaths and 13 missing.
The Philippine Coast Guard has recovered 41 bodies from the wreckage of the MV June Aster, bringing the death toll to 76. The 2002‑built ferry was carrying 117 passengers and 17 crew when it caught fire while approaching Coron, a tourist hotspot.
More than 130 people were aboard when the blaze erupted Thursday. The coast guard said survivors numbered 43, many being treated in hospitals, and 13 people remain unaccounted for.
Investigators say the fire began in a cargo hold before spreading rapidly. Brigades were unable to board until Friday because of toxic fumes and lingering heat. They are looking into possible manifest discrepancies, how cargo was loaded, and crew emergency response.
Officials are working with families to identify victims through personal items and DNA samples. The ferry operator, Atienza Interisland Ferries, has pledged full cooperation with the inquiry.
