World · Philippines Bureau
MV June Aster captain confirmed safe as search operations continue
The master of the ferry involved in a maritime disaster has made contact with his company, easing concerns about his welfare. Recovery efforts aboard the vessel are now in their sixth day following the incident.
LSN Philippines ·
CALAPAN CITY — Captain Roel Sarmiento of the MV June Aster has been confirmed alive and has established contact with Atienza Interisland Ferries, his employer, maritime authorities reported Tuesday.
The confirmation came as search and recovery operations persisted aboard the troubled vessel, five days after the maritime tragedy that prompted the multi-day response effort.
Authorities provided no further details regarding the circumstances of the captain's survival or the specific status of other crew members and passengers involved in the incident. The ongoing recovery operations suggest significant challenges remain in the aftermath of the disaster.
Atienza Interisland Ferries has not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident or the broader implications for ferry operations in the region. The confirmation of the captain's survival represents the first positive development reported since the tragedy occurred.