Origin: Coast Guard Investigates Liability of MV June

The Philippine Coast Guard opened a probe into the ferry operator’s liability after the MV June Aster fire, examining whether crew actions before, during, or after the blaze were negligent. The ship was built in 2022, certified to carry 333 people, and cleared both a pre-departure check in Manila and a safety inspection in March 2026. The manifest listed 117 passengers and 17 crew on the Coron-bound voyage.

Early witness accounts point to the cargo hold. One survivor described a loud blast and smoke there followed by flames spreading within seconds. A surviving crew member said the fire started small. Several survivors reached rescue without life jackets, consistent with people jumping overboard immediately.

The Maritime Industry Authority opened a parallel safety investigation and deployed teams to coordinate with the Coast Guard and aid survivors. The operator, Atienza Interisland Ferries, pledged to shoulder transport for all affected and burial assistance for the dead, and said it will cooperate with investigators. The captain survived and is recovering, and the final passenger list is still being verified.

AI-synthesized from multiple reported sources