Watch: Ferry erupts in flames off Philippines’ Palawan; 5 killed
A passenger ferry named M/V June Aster caught fire off the coast of Coron in the Philippines, resulting in at least five deaths. Rescue operations successfully brought 42 survivors to shore, while authorities continue to account for the 134 total people reported to be on board.
Why it matters
This incident highlights ongoing maritime safety concerns in the Philippines, a nation heavily reliant on ferry transport for inter-island travel.
A fire broke out aboard a passenger ferry near the popular tourist destination of Coron in the Philippines’ Palawan province on Wednesday evening, killing at least five people, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and local media.The vessel, M/V June Aster, caught fire in waters about 1.2 nautical miles northeast of Barangay Marcilla in the municipality of Coron, the PCG said. Coast guard teams responded to the incident and began rescue operations, reported AFP.Visuals from the scene showed the vessel engulfed in flames as rescue operations were under way.
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