MANILA — On Friday, the Philippine Coast Guard and a coalition of army rescue boats, local fishermen and private resort owners resumed the search for survivors of the ferry fire that erupted off the western province of Palawan on Wednesday night. Thick smoke still billowing from the charred hull of the vessel, named Cayabyab, has hampered efforts to board the ferry and conduct a thorough sweep.
Casualties and missing persons
According to Coast Guard spokesperson Cayabyab, the death toll stands at five confirmed fatalities. The number of missing persons was revised to 84 after officials verified that two individuals listed on the original manifest were not aboard the ferry. So far, 43 passengers have been rescued and are receiving medical evaluation.
Survivor accounts
One of the rescued passengers, Richard Marceliano, told GMA News that he saw only a small wisp of smoke before it erupted into a raging fire that engulfed the ferry within seconds. Marceliano and other passengers spent nearly two hours drifting in the sea before being pulled to safety by rescue vessels.
Search operations
The Coast Guard has deployed five vessels and a team of divers to the scene. A larger Coast Guard ship is slated to join the effort later today. Army rescue boats, local fishermen and owners of nearby resorts have also been assisting in the ongoing search, which began Wednesday night.
Cause of the blaze remains unclear
Authorities have not yet determined what ignited the fire. A statement from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), citing survivor testimony, noted that two successive explosions were heard from within the ship, which may have triggered the blaze.
Vessel details
The ferry was carrying 117 passengers and 17 crew members on a scheduled voyage from Baseco in Manila to Coron, a popular tourist destination in Palawan known for its diving sites and island‑hopping attractions. In addition to passengers, the vessel was transporting five motorcycles, an electric vehicle, a forklift, a pickup truck and assorted cargo.
Community response
Local communities across Palawan have rallied to support the families of the missing and deceased, offering shelter, food and counseling services. Religious groups have organized prayer vigils, emphasizing the importance of faith and family unity during this tragedy.
Officials continue to urge anyone with information about the incident or the whereabouts of missing passengers to contact the Coast Guard hotline. The search is expected to continue throughout the weekend as conditions permit.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
