The confirmed death toll from the MV June Aster fire in Coron, Palawan, has risen to 76, following the arrival of additional recovered remains.
Forty-one bodies recovered Saturday arrived at the Port of Borac in Coron at 1:20 p.m. Sunday, bringing the total number of confirmed fatalities to 76.
Forensic experts from the Philippine National Police said most of the recovered remains were severely burned. As a result, identifying the victims could take several weeks or even months.
The number of survivors remains at 43. Based on the vessel’s ticket manifest, 13 people are still considered missing.
The Philippine Coast Guard expressed condolences to the families of those who died and to relatives who continue to await information about their missing loved ones.
Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said the recovery of the remaining victims was being carried out carefully and systematically.
The PCG also assured that it would continue working with other government agencies and the local government in the investigation to determine the cause of the incident and identify those who may be held accountable.
Meanwhile, Atienza Inter-Island Ferries, the operator of MV June Aster, said it was cooperating with the investigation and would continue assisting families affected by the tragedy.
