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Five dead and 86 feared missing after Philippines ferry fire
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- A ferry traveling from Manila to Coron, Palawan, caught fire near Barangay Marcilla, resulting in at least five deaths and 87 people still missing, according to the Philippine Coast Guard.
- The vessel, MV June Aster, was carrying 134 people, including 117 passengers and 17 crew members; 42 individuals have been rescued so far, mostly passengers.
- Rescue operations face challenges due to strong currents, poor weather, and drifting of the vessel from its initial distress location; the coastguard is using a "whole-of-government" approach involving volunteer fisherfolk.
- Maritime accidents are common in the Philippines due to severe weather, poor maintenance, and inconsistent safety enforcement; the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
- Coron is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and diving sites, including World War II shipwrecks; this is the first major incident of its kind reported in the area.
