MV June Aster crew, owners face possible charges over ship fire

Authorities are eyeing criminal and anti-graft charges against the crew and owners of fire-hit MV June Aster, cargo handlers, and government personnel over a blaze that killed 77 people, injured 43, and left eight others missing.

Fire Chief Superintendent Wilberto Rico Neil Ang Kwan Tiu, in a Palace briefing Friday, said those found responsible could face charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, while government personnel who failed to perform their duties could also be charged under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

“Automatically, it will be reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, and at the same time violations of anti-graft and corrupt practices by those people in the government,” Kwan Tiu said.

The BFP chief said the vessel’s captain, chief mate, two able-bodied seamen, second mate, and safety officer were among those who could face charges. The ship’s owner, other officers, and the contractor responsible for loading its cargo could also be held liable.

Investigators are examining possible violations involving the loading and declaration of dangerous cargo, including asphalt and calcium hypochlorite, a chemical commonly used in swimming pool disinfectants. The substances were reportedly stored near the vessel’s engine exhaust, where heat may have contributed to ignition. Rough seas may also have caused the cargo to shift and the substances to mix.

Kwan Tiu said the excess volume of chemicals could be considered an aggravating circumstance in filing charges against those found responsible.

Authorities are also coordinating with the Philippine Coast Guard and the Maritime Industry Authority to determine why the passenger roll-on/roll-off vessel, which was traveling from Batangas to Coron, Palawan, was cleared to sail despite a reported mechanical problem that delayed its departure by four days.

The investigation is also looking into possible lapses at the port of origin, including whether personnel properly inspected the vessel and secured its cargo before departure.