MV June Aster death toll rises to 76; 13 still unaccounted for

THE death toll from the devastating fire aboard MV June Aster has climbed to 76, after authorities recovered 41 additional sets of human remains from the vessel as of Saturday evening. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed the grim update, noting that the newly recovered remains will be transported aboard the BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV‑4411) on Sunday, September 13, for proper processing and identification.

In a report submitted by the Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operatives (PNP‑SOCO), recovery teams also found the remains of a dog that had been aboard the passenger vessel. PCG Spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab conveyed the latest figures, emphasizing that search and recovery operations remain ongoing to locate the passengers still listed as missing.

Based on the vessel’s ticket manifest listing 134 individuals, the PCG clarified that 13 persons remain unaccounted for, while two others who were listed confirmed they did not actually board the vessel. The number of survivors remains at 43. Authorities cautioned that these figures may still be adjusted as recovery and identification efforts continue.

The MV June Aster caught fire on the evening of Wednesday, September 9, while navigating the waters off Coron, Palawan. The cause of the blaze that claimed so many lives has yet to be officially determined, even as recovery teams continue their difficult work amid the tragedy.