Philippine Ferry Fire Claims 76 Lives as Rescuers Recover More Bodies

Rescuers recover more bodies from burned Philippine ferry, death toll now at 76 with 13 missing. Survivors recount rapid spread of fire.

Editorial Desk

September 14, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Coron, Philippines — Rescuers have recovered additional remains from a passenger ferry that was engulfed in flames in the Philippines, raising the death toll to 76 with 13 people still missing.

The MV June Aster, which sailed from Manila, caught fire near Palawan province and was severely damaged. The incident occurred on Wednesday night, with 43 survivors reported among the 132 passengers and crew aboard.

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Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, with one survivor suggesting it may have originated in the cargo hold. The Philippine Coast Guard is also searching for the ship’s captain, who reportedly survived but is not listed among the rescued individuals.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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