Philippines Ferry Fire: 5 Killed & 87 Feared Missing After Massive Blaze on Ferry in Pulawan Province; Rescue Operation Underway

Philippines Ferry Fire: Pulawan in the Philippines is often considered to be a tourist favourite destination. But today, things turned tragic after a fire broke out on the M/V June Aster ferry. The devastating fire killed at least 5 people, with search and rescue operations currently underway. 

Philippines Ferry Fire: What Happened? 

Earlier today, a passenger ferry named MV June Aster caught fire off the western coast of the Philippines, near Coron, Palawan, while it was en route from Manila to Coron. The blaze started at approximately 6:45 P.M. local time, according to reports, as the ship was nearing its destination. At least five people have lost their lives, and 87 people are still unaccounted for as search-and-rescue efforts carry on. The Philippines Coast Guard confirmed the news and shared a video of the blaze on social media. 

Philippines Ferry Fire: Cause of the Fire 

WATCH: A ship was caught in a blaze in waters off Barangay Marcilla in Coron, Palawan, on Wednesday, September 9. | 📷 PCG https://t.co/3IIg8IjcuD

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An official cause of the ferry fire in the Philippines has not been shared yet. But an investigation, which is still in its preliminary stages, has been launched. Some reports suggest that the fire initially started in the ferry’s cargo areas, but that has not been confirmed yet. A formal cause will be likely shared once the probe concludes. 

Philippines Ferry Fire: List of Affected Areas 

The Philippines Ferry fire has affected the following areas: 

• Coron, Palawan  

• Turda, Coron

• Coastal villages located near Coron 

• Baseco, Manila 

Philippines Ferry Fire: Eyewitness Accounts 

Initial reports suggest that the fire spread quickly, leaving passengers and crew with no choice but to jump into the water. Rescuers have struggled to get close to the affected ferry because of heavy smoke, soaring heat and the danger of explosions. Boats belonging to local fishermen and other craft have likewise helped pull some people out of the water with authorities launching  a massive search and rescue operation, but many passengers remain missing.

Philippines Ferry Fire: Investigation Update

The Philippine Coast Guard and maritime authorities are continuing their investigation as search-and-rescue operations remain ongoing. According to the ferry’s manifest, there were 117 passengers and 17 crew members, while the latest Coast Guard update reported that 43 people had been rescued. Officials warned that the figures could change as the search proceeds and passenger details are confirmed.

These are the details of the ferry fire so far. Further details are awaited.