Philippines Ferry Fire Death Toll Rises to 35, More Than 50 Missing

What changed

The death toll from the MV June Aster ferry fire in the Philippines has risen to 35 after the Philippine Coast Guard recovered 30 bodies from the wreckage. More than 50 people remain unaccounted for, according to BBC News.

The ferry was carrying 117 passengers and 17 crew members on a 22-hour journey from Manila to Coron when it caught fire on Wednesday near the tourist destination. Forty-three people were rescued, many of whom were treated in hospital. Toxic fumes and lingering heat prevented rescuers from boarding until Friday, and officials said more bodies remained inside, mostly in the sleeping area.

Preliminary survivor interviews suggest the fire began in the cargo hold. Investigators are examining possible passenger-manifest discrepancies, cargo-loading integrity and crew emergency procedures. The coast guard also said some passengers were not wearing life vests. One survivor told the BBC that panic broke out and people were trampled while trying to escape.

The vessel, built in 2002, held valid safety certificates and passed an inspection in March. Atienza Interisland Ferries, its operator, said it would fully cooperate with the inquiry.

Why it matters

The disaster raises questions about whether formal safety compliance translated into effective protection during an onboard emergency. The valid certificates and recent inspection do not resolve whether the cargo was properly secured, the manifest was accurate or the crew’s evacuation response worked under pressure.

The investigation will determine whether responsibility rests with cargo handling, oversight, emergency procedures or a combination of failures. The final death toll may still change as recovery and identification work continues.

What to watch next

• Further recovery operations inside the ferry and identification of the remains.
• Updates on the more than 50 people still unaccounted for.
• Findings from the maritime authority’s investigation into the cargo hold, manifest, loading practices and crew response.
• Any regulatory or legal action involving Atienza Interisland Ferries or other parties.