This screengrab of the handout video from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) taken on Sept. 9, 2026, and received on September 10, 2026, shows the ferry that caught fire off Palawan. At least five people are dead, and 87 remain unaccounted for after a ferry fire erupted near a tourist hotspot in the Philippine province of Palawan, the country’s coast guard said on September 10, 2026. —Photo by Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) via Agence France-Presse
Reported by:
Cherry Meigh Timbol
News Content Editor
Published September 10, 2026
A devastating fire aboard the passenger ferry MV June Aster has left at least five people dead and dozens still missing after the vessel erupted in flames while approaching Coron, Palawan. Philippine Coast Guard and military rescuers are racing against time as smoke continues to pour from the charred ship.
Explosion Reportedly Triggered the Blaze
The ferry departed Baseco, Manila bound for Coron, carrying 117 passengers and 17 crew members. Survivors told investigators they heard a loud explosion from the cargo hold before thick black smoke rapidly spread through the vessel, forcing many passengers to jump into the sea—some without life jackets.
Authorities said the ship was transporting several vehicles, including motorcycles, an electric vehicle, a pickup truck, and general cargo. The exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation.
Rescue Operation Still Underway
As of Thursday, rescuers had pulled 43 people from the water while at least five fatalities were confirmed. More than 80 people remain unaccounted for, though officials stressed that the numbers may change as survivors are identified and rescue efforts continue.
Rescue teams include:
- Philippine Coast Guard vessels
- Philippine Army rescue boats
- Local fishermen and volunteer boat operators
- Private resort owners assisting offshore searches
- A military aircraft on standby
Why Rescuers Can’t Board the Ferry Yet
Despite the fire being largely extinguished, the vessel continues to emit intense heat and thick smoke. Coast Guard officials say the risk of renewed explosions has prevented boarding teams from conducting a full inspection or searching inside the ferry.
Philippine Coast Guard/AP
Investigation Begins
The Philippine Coast Guard has launched a comprehensive investigation into the disaster. Officials confirmed the ferry had passed its required safety inspections before sailing, and they have not ruled out any possible cause—including mechanical failure or other factors—pending forensic examination.
The Philippines mobilizes a coordinated rescue operation involving coast guard, military, and civilian vessels to locate survivors following a devastating ferry fire off Palawan. The blaze resulted in at least five fatalities and left more than 80 individuals unaccounted for.
🧩 Bottom Line:
SOURCES: INQUIRER.NET – At least 5 dead, 87 missing in Palawan ferry fire – Coast Guard
PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY – 86 missing, 5 dead as ferry catches fire off Palawan – PCG
REUTERS – Philippines deploys vessels as rescuers seek access to burned ferry
