Philippine ferry fire victims may take months to identify

The Philippine ferry MV June Aster suffered a fire that claimed the lives of 76 people, with authorities stating that it could take weeks or months to identify the victims due to the extensive forensic work required. The disaster occurred while the ferry was en route from Manila to Coron in Palawan province, carrying more than 130 passengers.

Forensic specialist Richard Allan Mangalip from the Philippine National Police explained that many remains were found in clusters while others were scattered throughout the vessel, which was mostly in a charred state. The fire investigation is still ongoing, with investigators yet to determine the cause of the fire and locate the sections of the ship affected by the blaze, including flooded lower decks and the engine room.

Two explosions were reportedly heard prior to the fire breaking out, according to survivor accounts. The Maritime Industry Authority, citing survivor accounts, confirmed the shipowner's cooperation with the investigation and their continued assistance to affected families. This incident adds to a series of deadly maritime accidents in the Philippines, a nation comprised of over 7,600 islands where millions of people depend on ferries and smaller boats for transportation.