MV June Aster fire out; burnt remains discovered on board

Authorities have declared the fire aboard the passenger vessel MV June Aster extinguished as of approximately 10:15 a.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026, in the waters off Coron, Palawan. Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab confirmed the development, stating that response teams immediately conducted a thorough safety assessment of the vessel following the blaze.

During the inspection, burnt remains were discovered within the economy accommodation section of the ship, prompting formal recovery and identification procedures.

Cayabyab disclosed that joint teams composed of the Philippine Coast Guard, the Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operatives (PNP‑SOCO), and other concerned agencies are presently undertaking the proper recovery and identification of the remains in strict accordance with established protocols.

“We recognize the grief of the families affected by this tragic incident. Rest assured that operations are carried out with utmost respect for the deceased and their bereaved families,” the PCG spokesperson emphasized, underscoring the care and dignity being observed throughout the difficult process.

As a precautionary environmental measure, the PCG has deployed oil spill containment booms around the vessel’s vicinity to safeguard coastal and marine resources. Subsequent assessments, however, have not detected any signs of oil sheen or fuel leakage in the surrounding waters, offering some relief amid the tragedy. The response effort has been cited as embodying the PCG’s Intensified Community Assistance, Awareness, Response, and Enforcement (iCARE) campaign — a commitment to compassionate, selfless service in every operation.

Authorities have yet to release further details regarding the number of persons on board, the exact cause of the fire, or the full extent of casualties. Investigation and identification work remain ongoing, with additional information expected to be released once recovery operations and preliminary inquiries yield confirmed findings. The PCG has assured the public and the families of those involved that updates will be provided as soon as verified information becomes available.