Fire on ferry off Philippines leaves dozens missing, kills at least 5
Updated on: September 10, 2026 / 9:50 AM EDT / CBS/AP
TL;DR
- A fire on the MV June Aster ferry off the western Philippines has killed at least five people and left dozens missing.
- 43 people have been rescued, and search-and-rescue operations are ongoing.
- The ferry caught fire Wednesday evening and was found listing but afloat on Thursday.
- The cause of the fire is under investigation, with one survivor suggesting it may have started in the cargo hold.
- The ferry was en route from Manila to Coron, Palawan, when the distress signal was sent.
- Bad weather and strong currents are complicating rescue efforts.
- Ferry accidents are common in the Philippines due to various factors including storms and safety regulation enforcement.