35 dead, 54 missing in Philippine vessel fire

MANILA, Sept. 11 (Xinhua) -- Rescuers recovered 30 bodies on Friday from a ferry that caught fire in Palawan province of the Philippines on Wednesday, bringing the total death toll to 35, with 54 people still missing, said the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

In this photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, ferry MV June Aster smolders off Palawan province, western Philippines, Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, days after it caught fire. (Photo: AP)

Footage released by the PCG shows the passenger ferry heavily charred, with ashes and burnt metal visible at the scene. Local media reported that 43 people have survived the fire.

The ferry departed Manila and caught fire near waters off Coron Municipality, a well-known tourist destination. According to the passenger manifest, 134 people, including 117 passengers and 17 crew members, were listed on board. Two passengers later told authorities they did not embark.

Ferry is a frequent mode of transport across the Philippine archipelago. Due to bad weather, poor vessel maintenance, and weak enforcement of safety regulations, maritime accidents from time to time.