Philippine ferry fire death toll climbs to 76 as identification process begins
First bodies of Philippines ferry fire victims land as toll hits 35
The death toll from a Philippine ferry fire has risen to 76 following the discovery of 41 additional bodies on board the burnt-out vessel, M/V June Aster, according to the coast guard. Forensic specialists are now beginning the process of identifying the remains. The ship, grounded approximately 7.5 kilometers off the coast of Palawan, has been covered with one-meter deep graves to hold the victims until DNA testing is completed.
Relatives will be brought to identify personal items that may belong to their loved ones, after which they will be asked to provide a DNA sample if they can verify the identity. The fire, which began in the cargo hold, spread quickly and within seconds. Thirty passengers, including two Chilean nationals, and 13 crew members have been rescued.
Around a dozen people are still missing. The fire was reportedly caused by an explosion in the cargo hold. Eyewitnesses reported that by the time survivors heard the smoke and flames, there was no time to put on life jackets. One distraught relative, Josenit Mayo, shared her daughter's desperate plea to return home. Another, Myra Cabilan, expressed her anguish over her missing brother.
The company that owns the ferry, Atienza Interisland Ferries Inc, has stated it is cooperating with the investigation.
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