A ferry carrying 134 passengers and crew burst into flames while travelling towards the Philippine tourist destination of Coron, leaving at least five people dead and 86 others unaccounted for. Rescue teams are battling difficult weather conditions as they continue searching the surrounding waters for survivors.
Highlights
- At least five people have been confirmed dead.
- 86 passengers and crew members remain unaccounted for.
- The MV June Aster was carrying 134 people when the fire broke out.
- At least 43 people have been rescued, according to the Coast Guard.
- Strong waves and poor weather are complicating the search operation.
Main Story
Ferry Bursts Into Flames
A major search-and-rescue operation is underway in the Philippines after a ferry caught fire while transporting passengers and crew towards Coron, a popular tourist destination.
The MV June Aster was carrying 134 people when the blaze erupted at approximately 6:45pm local time on Wednesday.
The Philippine Coast Guard has confirmed at least five deaths, while 86 people remain missing.
Coast Guard Captain Noemi Cayabyab said 43 people had been rescued as emergency teams continued working around the affected area.
Difficult Conditions Hamper Rescue
Authorities have launched a coordinated government-wide response to locate those still missing.
However, rough conditions at sea are making the operation more difficult, with strong waves affecting rescue personnel and vessels searching the area.
The incident has raised concerns in a country where maritime accidents have occurred repeatedly over the years.
With dozens of people still unaccounted for, authorities are racing against time to determine the fate of those who were aboard the ferry.
Survivor Recalls Terrifying Escape
One survivor, 30-year-old construction worker Roland Lerma, described the moments of panic after the fire started.
Lerma had travelled with five neighbours from Manila before they headed towards Coron for work. Three of his colleagues were taken to hospital, while two others remain missing.
He said passengers had already eaten dinner when they suddenly heard a loud bang, followed by heavy smoke.
The situation quickly became chaotic as flames spread through the vessel.
Lerma said visibility dropped dramatically and the heat became intense, prompting passengers to desperately search for a way out.
He attempted to reach the side of the ferry so he could jump into the water but fell during the rush as other passengers tried to escape.
He eventually made it overboard and used his belongings to help him remain afloat.
Lerma said he also saw children entering the water as the fire continued.
Survivors Spent Hours in Water
The survivor said he and others remained in the sea for about two hours before help arrived.
He believes the delay in the rescue could have cost him his life.
His account has also raised questions about safety measures aboard the vessel, with Lerma claiming that the ferry appeared old and that passengers were not wearing life jackets when the emergency began.
Search Continues
Officials have described the incident as deeply distressing as rescue teams continue looking for those who remain missing.
The final death toll could rise as authorities assess the situation and recover more people from the sea.
For families waiting for news of their loved ones, the search remains a race against time as rescuers contend with difficult weather and dangerous waters.
As rescuers continue combing the waters, families of the missing are left hoping that more passengers will be found alive.
