Rescuers on Friday faced thick smoke and intense heat while trying to board the charred MV June Aster, a 53‑meter ferry that caught fire on Wednesday evening off the coast of Palawan. The vessel, drifting about four nautical miles from the village of Turda, had already claimed at least five lives and left 84 people missing.
Rescue efforts delayed by hazardous conditions
Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said the agency was assessing the situation and intended to get rescue teams onto the vessel as soon as conditions allowed. Smoke continued to pour from the listing ferry, forcing crews to suspend boarding attempts overnight.
According to the manifest, 134 individuals were aboard the ferry—117 passengers and 17 crew members. The ship, which can carry up to 306 passengers and 27 crew, was far below capacity at the time of the fire.
Survivor accounts and ongoing search
One survivor, Arnulfo Nokki Villanueva, described the chaos in a video interview with News5. “The fire quickly spread. That’s when I dropped to the ground and my back was burned,” he said. “I wanted to get a life jacket but failed to get one because people were stepping on me. People were in panic.” Villanueva eventually escaped by jumping out of a window.
Coast Guard units, other government agencies, private volunteers, and local fishermen have been combing the nearby waters. Coastal patrols are also checking shorelines for any drifted victims, but no additional survivors or fatalities have been confirmed since the initial rescue of 43 people.
International passengers and next steps
Two Chilean tourists were among the rescued, now receiving treatment at a hospital in Coron. Ship owner Atienza Interisland Ferries Inc. confirmed no other foreign nationals were on board.
The shipping company issued a statement saying it is fully cooperating with the Coast Guard and maritime authorities to locate the missing passengers and determine the fire’s cause. At this time, investigators have not identified a definitive source for the blaze.
Broader context of ferry safety in the Philippines
Ferries are a vital mode of transport across the Philippine archipelago, but accidents are not uncommon. Factors such as severe weather, inadequate vessel maintenance, overcrowding, and inconsistent enforcement of safety regulations—especially in remote provinces—contribute to the risk. The MV June Aster incident underscores the need for stricter oversight and better emergency response capabilities.
Coron, a popular tourist destination known for its clear blue waters and limestone cliffs, remains a focal point for travelers despite the tragedy. Local officials have urged families of the missing to stay hopeful while authorities continue their search.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
