Survivors of the MV June Aster have consistently reported a rapid spread of fire during the maritime disaster on September 9, 2026, which claimed 77 lives off Coron, Palawan.
Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Commodore Noemi Cayabyab revealed that while some survivors had varying accounts, the consensus about the fire's swift escalation is significant.
Ongoing Investigations and Casualty Updates
What is consistent on those accounts is the rapid spread of fire. 'Yan ang tinitignan natin ngayon kaya sinuyod natin ang cargo deck and engine room dahil based sa testimony ng survivor doon nila nakita 'yung usok at apoy.'
Commodore Noemi Cayabyab, PCG Spokesperson
- 77 fatalities confirmed
- 43 survivors rescued
- 8 individuals reported missing
As of now, the casualty count stands at 77 confirmed fatalities, with 43 survivors and eight individuals still missing. A total of 128 passengers were accounted for according to the vessel's ticket manifest.
The PCG has initiated two investigations: one focusing on maritime safety protocols and the other examining potential maritime crimes. A key area of inquiry involves an electric vehicle that was aboard the vessel at the time of the fire.
Cayabyab noted that one crew member reported the fire's origin in the cargo hold, where the electric vehicle was stored along with other items, including motorcycles and essential goods.
Despite the ongoing search and rescue operations, which have now expanded as far as Mindoro, the PCG remains hopeful for more survivors. They are employing scientific methods to aid their efforts.
Cayabyab emphasized, 'We won't rest as long as someone is missing. We've had previous successes in finding survivors even weeks after incidents. Our coordination with coastal barangays remains active as we strive to assist in this tragedy.'