The MV June Aster, a ferry bound for Palawan’s Coron, erupted in flames just 1.2 nautical miles from shore on the night of September 4. The blaze, reportedly sparked by a loud explosion in the cargo hold, swept through the vessel in minutes, forcing passengers to scramble for escape.
Survivor Roland Lerma, a 30‑year‑old construction worker from Leyte, recounted a frantic scramble that left him trampled and falling as he tried to escape. "People were trampling me," he said, describing how he had to crawl until he found footing again before leaping into the dark sea. He floated on his back for about two hours before rescuers pulled him and other survivors from the water, he added.
Five passengers died and 86 are still missing, according to Philippine Coast Guard officials. Families await news, and rescue operations are ongoing as the vessel’s fire remains Alight. Survivors are dealing with shock and physical injury, with Ler Mer saying he still suffers from bruises and chest pain.
The ferry’s itinerary began at Manila’s Port of Baseco at 20:13 local time, with an expected arrival in Coron at 18:00. At the time of the fire, the vessel was only 2.2 km from the coast. The Coast Guard confirmed that the cargo included motorcycles, an electric car, and heavy equipment, which complicated evacuation efforts.
Families of missing passengers, such as Anelyn Magbanua whose husband was aboard, are enduring an agonizing wait. Magbanua’s son his, remain at home, hoping their father will be found among the survivors or rescued later.
Philippine Coast Guard spokespersons emphasized the seriousness of the blaze, noting that effective extinguishment had not yet occurred. Meanwhile, survivors remain in hospitals in Coron and nearby Culion, while apprehensive families search for answers.
Images: The first photo shows survivors being helped off the burned ferry. A second image captures Roland Lerma in a red T‑shirt, the third displays the remains of the vessel with smoke still visible in the water.
