Ferry fire kills 35 near Philippine coast, 54 still missing
Fire swept through the MV June Aster passenger ferry Wednesday night near Palawan, killing at least 35 people with 54 still missing.
A fire swept through the MV June Aster passenger ferry Wednesday night near Palawan in the southwestern Philippines. At least 35 people have been confirmed dead, with 54 still missing and 43 survivors accounted for.
The ferry had 134 people aboard (117 passengers and 17 crew), well below its capacity of 306 passengers and 27 crew. The fire spread rapidly, causing panic as passengers scrambled to escape.
Rescuers have struggled to search the vessel due to intense heat and smoke inside, slowing the recovery effort. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
- 35
- Deaths confirmed
- 54
- Still missing
- 43
- Survivors
- 134 (117 passengers, 17 crew)
- People aboard
Why it mattersThe incident highlights ongoing maritime safety gaps in Philippine waters, where aging vessels and poor maintenance remain routine problems.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, but the disaster reflects maritime safety risks that could affect Australian travelers using ferries in the Asia-Pacific region.
Corroborated bysmh.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 13 d ago
