Video: 5 Dead, Dozens Missing After Passenger Ferry Catches Fire Off Philippines

A fire on a passenger ferry off the western Philippines killed at least five people and left dozens missing.

The MV June Aster was sailing from Manila to Coron in Palawan province when the fire broke out at around 6:45 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 9. The vessel was near Coron at the time.

The Philippine Coast Guard said there were 134 people on board, including 117 passengers and 17 crew members.

Commodore Noemie Cayabyab, a Coast Guard spokeswoman, said 43 people had been rescued so far, while the number of missing could change as the search continues.

“We are continuing search and rescue operations,” Cayabyab said.

The fire has been put out, but the ferry is still afloat and listing. Smoke was still coming from the burnt vessel by midday on Thursday.

Video Credits: The Guardian/YouTube

The search involves a coast guard ship and high-speed response boats, along with a military ship, other government boats, private volunteers and fishermen.

The Coast Guard has also sent out a radio message asking nearby ships to look out for survivors. It is also working with coastal villages in case any passengers have drifted to shore.

Severe weather and large waves have made the rescue work more difficult.

The MV June Aster issued a distress signal while about 4 nautical miles (7.4 kilometres) from Turda village in Coron. Strong currents later carried the ferry about 7.68 nautical miles (14.2 kilometres) away from the village.

Images from the rescue showed coast guard personnel throwing life jackets to survivors while the ferry burned in the background.

Passengers were helped onto smaller boats and taken to shallow water. Body bags were also seen at what appeared to be a port.

The search was still going on Thursday as authorities worked to find the remaining missing passengers and crew.

References: business standard, thehindu