Death toll from Philippines ferry fire climbs to 35, with dozens still missing

The Philippines Coast Guard has confirmed that 35 people have died in a ferry fire that occurred on Wednesday as the MV June Aster neared its destination at the tourist hotspot of Coron, after departing from Manila. More than 130 people were on board when the blaze erupted, and 43 people were rescued, with many receiving treatment in hospital. The coast guard has recovered 30 bodies from the wreckage, but more than 50 people remain unaccounted for. The country's coast guard says that more bodies remain on the boat, which they were unable to board until Friday due to toxic fumes and lingering heat. The fire is believed to have started in the cargo hold, and some passengers were not wearing life vests. A survivor who was hauled to safety on a rescue boat told the BBC that he had heard frantic cries onboard when the fire erupted, and was trampled by panicked people as he tried to escape. The Philippines' maritime authority is investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, including potential manifest discrepancies, cargo loading integrity, and crew emergency response protocols. The vessel, built in 2002, held valid safety certificates and passed an enforcement inspection in March. Atienza Interisland Ferries, the vessel's operator, has pledged full cooperation with the inquiry and has said that their hearts remain with the affected families. The coast guard spokesperson, Commodore Noemie Cayabyab, said that most bodies had been retrieved from the sleeping area of the boat, which had been making a 22-hour journey. The recovery and identification of the remains are currently underway. The coast guard's efforts have been slowed by toxic fumes and lingering heat, making it difficult to access the burnt-out boat.