World · Philippines Bureau
Death toll from Philippine ferry fire rises to 76 as recovery continues
The Philippine Coast Guard has confirmed 41 additional bodies recovered from a burnt ferry vessel, bringing the confirmed death toll to 76. The remains are being transported to Coron in Palawan for identification.
LSN Philippines ·
CORON, Palawan — The death toll from a devastating ferry fire has climbed to 76 after coast guard personnel discovered 41 more bodies aboard the charred wreckage, officials said Saturday.
Coast Guard spokeswoman Commodore Noemie Cayabyab confirmed the grim discovery in a statement, noting that the recovered remains would be transported to a port facility in Coron for the identification process.
The recovery operation, which has stretched over several days, continues as investigators work to account for all passengers and crew members aboard the ill-fated vessel. The identification process is expected to take considerable time given the condition of the remains.
No immediate details were available regarding the cause of the fire or the circumstances that led to the loss of life. Coast Guard officials are continuing their investigation into the incident.
The tragedy marks one of the deadliest maritime disasters in Philippine waters in recent years, prompting renewed scrutiny of ferry safety protocols and vessel inspections in the region.