Overview
- The Philippine Coast Guard said the death toll has risen to 76, about 13 people remain missing and 43 people survived from roughly 132 people on board the MV June Aster.
- The blaze began Wednesday evening as the ferry neared Coron, Palawan, and survivors reported explosions in the cargo hold before flames swept through passenger areas within seconds.
- Forensic teams brought dozens of badly burned bodies ashore where many require DNA testing from teeth or bone and some will be temporarily buried pending identification.
- Authorities launched coordinated maritime safety and criminal investigations to examine the fire’s cause, cargo stowage and manifest accuracy while officials seek the vessel’s captain and review crew response.
- The incident highlights long-standing safety problems for Philippines inter-island ferries, deepens grief for families waiting for word, and could trigger stricter inspections and enforcement of rules.