67 MV June Aster victims identified

CORON, Palawan — Authorities have identified 67 of the 71 bodies recovered for forensic identification following the deadly fire aboard MV June Aster last month, with 12 remains already released to families, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported Saturday.

PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said four bodies remain unidentified as forensic specialists continue their examination.

The latest figure represents an increase of seven identified victims from the 60 reported on 13 Oct.

In an interview with DZRH, Cayabyab said 18 families had contacted the Emergency Operations Center in Coron to coordinate the identification and release of their relatives’ remains.

The PCG said 12 bodies had been turned over to families, while the release of other identified victims depends on the completion of requirements and coordination with relatives. Atienza Shipping Lines is assisting authorities in contacting affected families.

Meanwhile, search-and-rescue operations continue for eight people who remain unaccounted for — five passengers and three crew members.

Cayabyab said the Coast Guard has not downgraded the operation to a recovery mission, citing reports that some of the missing individuals may have survived.

Search efforts cover islands around Palawan and coastal areas in Southern Tagalog, with authorities coordinating with neighboring provinces and coastal communities for possible information on the missing. The PCG is also using a search-and-rescue optimization planning system to guide operations.

MV June Aster caught fire on 9 September while traveling toward Coron. The disaster left 77 people dead and 43 survivors, while eight remain missing, based on the government’s latest accounting of the 128 people confirmed aboard.

The identification of additional victims comes as investigators continue examining possible criminal and administrative liabilities arising from the tragedy.

Authorities disclosed Friday that possible charges against crew members, vessel owners, cargo handlers and government personnel were being considered over alleged lapses in cargo handling and maritime safety.

The investigation remains ongoing.