Possible EV link in June Aster fire prompts ferry bans, safety review

MANILA, Philippines - The possibility that an electric vehicle was involved in the explosion aboard the fire-hit MV June Aster has prompted shipping companies and government agencies to evaluate safety protocols for transporting EVs and hybrid vehicles by sea.

Since last week, Philippine Coast Guard investigators have been trying to determine the cause of the incident following survivors' accounts that they heard a loud explosion from the ship's cargo deck before the fire broke out.

The Coast Guard said it is looking into several possibilities, including a terrorist attack or an explosion involving the EV aboard the vessel.

The MV June Aster was carrying one EV, five motorcycles, a forklift, a pickup truck and other cargo when it was engulfed in flames on September 9.

Authorities stressed that they have not determined the cause of the fire, as the investigation remains ongoing.