World · Philippines Bureau
PCG files document falsification case against MV June Aster captain
The Philippine Coast Guard has lodged a criminal complaint against the captain of MV June Aster, alleging falsification of public documents related to a devastating September fire that forced the evacuation of 128 people off Coron, Palawan.
LSN Philippines ·
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) filed charges against Captain Roel Sarmiento for the alleged falsification of a public document stemming from the September 9 fire that engulfed the MV June Aster while carrying 128 passengers and crew members in waters off Coron, Palawan.
The complaint marks the first criminal case filed by the PCG in connection with the maritime incident. Investigators allege that Sarmiento falsified documentation related to the vessel, though specific details regarding which documents were allegedly altered remain under review.
The MV June Aster fire prompted a significant rescue operation off the coast of Palawan. All personnel aboard were evacuated safely, though the vessel suffered extensive damage in the incident.
The case is currently being processed through the appropriate legal channels. The PCG continues its investigation into the circumstances that led to the shipboard fire and the circumstances surrounding the alleged document falsification.