A fire on the passenger vessel MV June Aster off Coron, Palawan, has claimed 77 lives, with the death toll rising after a rescued crew member died in hospital. The Philippine Coast Guard confirmed the update, stating that the crew member, who had survived the initial incident, succumbed to injuries later. The vessel, which was carrying both passengers and crew, was engulfed in flames, leading to a major rescue operation.
Emergency services worked swiftly to evacuate survivors, but the situation remained critical. The Coast Guard spokesperson noted that the crew member’s death marked a significant increase in casualties. Details about the cause of the fire remain under investigation. Authorities have not yet released the full list of victims, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the tragedy.
The incident has sparked concern over maritime safety in the region. Local officials are reviewing emergency protocols, while families of the victims await further information. The MV June Aster remains a focal point for both rescue efforts and subsequent inquiries into the disaster.
