Philippines ferry fire kills five, leaves 86 missing off Palawan

A search and rescue operation has begun in the Philippines to locate up to 84 individuals still unaccounted for following a fire aboard a ferry near the popular tourist destination of Coron. At least five fatalities are reported following the blaze that rapidly engulfed the vessel. The Philippine Coast Guard is conducting a thorough investigation into the incident.

Thick smoke has impeded rescue personnel's efforts to board the 53-meter ferry to determine the cause of the fire. Over 130 people were reportedly onboard when the fire erupted around 6:45 PM local time on Wednesday evening, just after the ferry's departure from Manila. Survivors recounted seeing a small amount of smoke that quickly transformed into a devastating inferno, consuming the ferry within seconds.

Approximately 43 people have been rescued thus far, while the remaining missing are believed to be passengers and crew members, as well as those carrying goods, an electric vehicle, a pickup truck, and motorcycles. The coast guard has dispatched five vessels, divers, army rescue boats, fishermen, and private resort owners to assist in the search, which commenced on Wednesday night.

The Philippine Coast Guard spokeswoman, Commodore Noemie Cayabyab, stated that the number of missing has been revised to 84, following the discovery that two individuals on the passenger list did not board the ferry. The MV June Aster was scheduled to reach Coron the following day at 6 PM local time. Thick smoke has hindered rescue workers from entering the vessel to assess the situation.

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) cited survivor accounts indicating two explosions on board, which triggered the fire. One survivor believed the fire may have originated in the cargo hold. Most of the rescued individuals were those who had swum away from the ship, as many had not had time to don life jackets. Authorities are also investigating reports of foreigners on board, with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in communication with Philippine authorities to verify if any Australians were present.

The ferry, built in 2002, was certified to carry 306 passengers and 33 crew members and underwent a compliance inspection in March, which included verifying the presence of adequate life jackets. The ferry's owner, Atienza Interisland Ferries Inc, stated that they are cooperating fully with the investigation and are working around the clock to manage the crisis.