Death toll from ferry fire in Philippines rises to 76

After the fire on a passenger ferry off the Philippine island province of Palawan, the number of deaths continues to rise. A coast guard spokeswoman said 41 bodies were recovered from the burned-out ferry on Saturday. This brings the death toll from the accident to 76.

The ferry “MV June Aster” was on its way from the capital Manila to Coron on Wednesday evening when it caught fire for an unknown reason. Survivors reported a loud explosion from the hold, followed by thick smoke and flames. At this time the ferry was around two kilometers off the coast.

Passengers jumped into the water

There were around 130 passengers and crew members on board. Some passengers reportedly jumped into the water in panic after the fire broke out. According to the coast guard, 43 people were rescued, including two tourists from Chile. Around 13 people are still missing.

The town of Coron is on the island of Busuanga. Together with the spectacular limestone island of Coron, the region is considered an international holiday paradise with wonderful beaches and world-famous diving destinations.