PCG: MV June Aster captain liable, still at large

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed on Saturday that the captain of the ill‑fated MV June Aster bears responsibility for the fire that engulfed the vessel off the waters of Coron, Palawan — but authorities are still working to locate him.

PCG Spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab disclosed this during a press briefing, noting that while the captain does not appear on the official list of survivors, reports indicate he may still be alive.

According to Cayabyab, the shipping company has informed authorities that Captain Roel Sarmiento was seen with other surviving crew members when they proceeded to the local barangay following the incident. “I have received information that the captain is alive. As we speak, however, we have not yet received any statement or formal communication regarding his status,” Cayabyab stated. This discrepancy between his reported whereabouts and his absence from official records has raised concerns about whether he has turned himself in or remains unaccounted for.

The PCG emphasized that Captain Sarmiento is considered liable for the tragedy, making his location and account of events critical to the ongoing investigation.

Authorities are urging the captain to come forward and submit his official statement so that the full circumstances of the fire can be established. Until he is located and formally interviewed, key questions regarding the vessel’s condition, safety protocols, and the cause of the blaze remain unanswered.