MV June Aster death toll hits 35 in ship fire incident near Coron

Thirty cadavers have been recovered from the MV June Aster, bringing the death toll to 35.

The MV June Aster caught ablaze on Wednesday night while in the waters of Coron, Palawan. Search and retrieval operations were hindered by the continuing flames and inclement weather, but authorities declared fire out by Friday morning.

“Joint authorities reported an initial count of 30 cadavers recovered on board MV June Aster today, September 11, 2026, following the declaration of fire out and subsequent safety assessment,” the PCG said in a statement.

PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said that the retrieval and transfer of cadavers began at around 5:16 p.m. through the use of the BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV-4411).

The cadavers will be transported to the Port of Borac in Coron, Palawan by Saturday, September 12. The bodies will arrive at the port by 11 a.m.

Before the recovery of the bodies, there were only five confirmed deaths and 43 survivors.

The PCG said that the recovery of the cadavers raised the latest death tally to 35 fatalities. –NB, GMA News