MANILA, Philippines — September 10, 2026 — At least five people have died and dozens remain unaccounted for after a passenger ferry caught fire off the western coast of the Philippines, triggering a major search-and-rescue operation.
The MV June Aster was travelling from Manila toward Coron in Palawan when the fire broke out on Wednesday evening, according to Philippine authorities. The vessel was carrying 134 people — 117 passengers and 17 crew members.
🔥 Rescue operation underway
The Philippine Coast Guard said 43 people had been rescued so far, while at least five fatalities had been confirmed. The number of people still missing was estimated at more than 80, although officials warned that the figures could change as rescuers continue checking the passenger manifest.
Coast Guard vessels, military units, government boats, fishermen and private vessels have joined the search. Rescuers are also using aerial assets and drift-modelling techniques to determine where people may have been carried by strong currents.
🌊 Difficult conditions
The rescue effort has been complicated by rough seas, strong currents, thick smoke and intense heat around the damaged vessel. Authorities have also been concerned about the possibility of explosions, making it difficult for rescuers to enter the ferry.
The burned ferry remained afloat but was reportedly listing as it drifted farther from its original position.
🔎 Cause of fire remains unknown
Authorities have not yet established what caused the blaze. Investigators are expected to work with the shipping company and maritime authorities to determine how the fire started and whether any safety procedures were breached.
Ferries are a crucial form of transportation across the Philippines, an archipelago of thousands of islands. The latest disaster is likely to renew questions about maritime safety, particularly following previous deadly ferry accidents in the country.
The search for survivors is continuing, and officials say the casualty figures could change as more information becomes available.
