Search for missing ferry victims continues

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. on Friday ordered the PNP Maritime Group to intensify its search and rescue operations for people still missing after a passenger ferry caught fire off Palawan.

Nartatez directed Maritime Group personnel to assist the Philippine Coast Guard and concerned local governments in the continuing search for missing passengers and crew.

“We are saddened by this incident and we extend our deepest sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives,” Nartatez said.

“Time is crucial in this kind of unfortunate incident, and we continue to deploy as many available personnel and resources as possible, especially for the search and rescue of missing passengers and crew,” he added.

At least five people died and about 43 passengers and crew were rescued after the fire broke out aboard the M/V June Aster on Wednesday night.

The passenger manifest showed 117 passengers and 17 crew members were aboard the vessel when it left Manila for Coron, Palawan. The PCG said 87 people remained unaccounted for.

Nartatez also ordered police units to assist in determining the cause of the fire and establish possible liabilities.

The police investigation will complement the PCG’s search and rescue operations and help establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Police units in coastal areas near the site were also directed to coordinate with barangay officials in the search.

Nartatez ordered local police to mobilize medical and other response teams to assist survivors and help identify the five bodies for immediate turnover to their families.