Ferry Fire in Philippines Leaves 35 Dead, 50 Missing
Coast Guard reports 30 bodies recovered from the wreckage burnt in a ferry blaze, raising the death toll to 35.
More than 130 people were aboard the MV June Aster when the fire erupted Wednesday near Coron, a popular tourist spot, after leaving Manila.
Forty-three passengers were rescued, most taken to hospital. Search teams are still looking for more than 50 people who are unaccounted for.
Remaining bodies were due to toxic fumes and lingering heat, delaying recovery until Friday.
Investigations trace the blaze to a possible fire in the cargo hold. Reports also note that some passengers were not wearing life jackets.
The Philippine Maritime Authority is probing the incident, looking into potential manifest discrepancies, cargo loading and crew emergency procedures.
The ferry, built in 2002, held valid safety certificates and passed enforcement inspection in March.
Operator Atienza Interisland Ferries committed to full cooperation and will not rest until all victims are found.
