MV June Aster death toll rises to 76; remains of dog recovered

Forty-one additional human remains have been recovered from the MV June Aster, bringing the death toll to 76 as of Saturday evening.

Aside from the human remains, the remains of a dog aboard the vessel were also recovered, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), citing a report from the Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operatives (PNP-SOCO).

PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said the 41 remains will be transported aboard BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV-4411) on Sunday, September 13.

Recovery operations for the remaining missing passengers are ongoing, the PCG said.

“Based on the ticket manifest of 134 individuals, 13 remain unaccounted for while two reported that they did not board the vessel. This figure may still change as recovery and identification operations continue,” the PCG said.

The number of survivors remains at 43.

The MV June Aster caught fire Wednesday evening, September 9, while sailing in the waters off Coron, Palawan. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy deployed BRP Valentin Diaz (PS-177), along with personnel from the Naval Special Warfare Unit-4 (NSWU-4), to assist in locating the missing individuals.

Philippine Navy assets under Joint Task Force Malampaya (JTF-Malampaya), including BRP Domingo Deluana (PG-203), BA-483, and personnel from the Naval Special Warfare Unit-10 (NSWU-10), are also taking part in the search operations.

“The Philippine Navy, through Naval Command West, remains steadfast in its mandate to safeguard lives at sea. Our personnel and assets will continue to support the ongoing search and rescue efforts until every possible lead has been exhausted,” said Rear Admiral Vincent Sibala, Naval Command West Commander. — MCG/VBL, GMA News