Philippine rescuers resume search for survivors of Palawan ferry fire

Smoke billowed from the burnt passenger ferry M/V June Aster off Coron, Palawan province, Philippines, on Friday as rescuers resumed their search for survivors of a ferry fire that claimed at least five lives. Over 80 people remained missing after the tragedy. Rescue efforts faced challenges due to thick smoke still billowing from the charred vessel, hindering responders' ability to board the ferry.

The number of missing individuals was revised downward from 86 to 84 after authorities confirmed that two people initially listed on the manifest were not on board. So far, 43 passengers have been rescued.

Richard Marceliano, one of the survivors, recounted seeing a small amount of smoke that swiftly transformed into a devastating fire, engulfing the ferry in mere seconds. He and other passengers floated in the sea for nearly two hours before being rescued. The Philippine Coast Guard has dispatched five vessels and divers to the scene, with additional support from army rescue boats, fishermen, and private resort owners. The search for survivors began the previous night.

The cause of the blaze remains unclear. According to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), survivor accounts revealed two consecutive explosions originating from within the ship, which sparked the fire. The ferry's manifest indicated that it was carrying 117 passengers and 17 crew members, along with five motorcycles, an electric vehicle, a forklift, a pickup truck, and primarily cargo goods, on a journey from Baseco in Manila to Coron, a popular tourist destination in Palawan renowned for its diving sites and island-hopping attractions.