A major maritime disaster unfolded off the coast of Palawan on Wednesday night when a ferry carrying over 100 people caught fire near the popular tourist destination of Coron. The Philippine Coast Guard confirmed that the vessel, the M/V June Aster, was engulfed in flames approximately 1.2 nautical miles from Barangay Marcilla. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, but authorities have already confirmed at least five fatalities, with images from the site showing the devastating impact of the blaze.

While rescue efforts are ongoing, reports indicate that 42 individuals have been pulled to safety so far. According to updates from local media outlet GMA News, which cited coast guard officials, the ship was reportedly carrying 134 people in total, consisting of 117 passengers and 17 crew members. Tracking data suggests the ferry had originated from Manila, and investigators are now working to determine the cause of the fire as the community grapples with this heartbreaking loss of life.