Death toll from Philippine ferry fire rises to 76
The death toll from a fire aboard the Philippine ferry M/V June Aster has risen to 76, with 13 people still missing. The Philippine Coast Guard recovered 41 additional bodies from the vessel, which was sailing from Manila to Coron, Palawan, when a blaze erupted on Wednesday evening. Investigators believe successive explosions and strong winds contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, which engulfed the ferry's lower decks. Rescuers initially saved 43 survivors. Forensic teams are working to identify the victims, and maritime officials are reviewing safety procedures and the captain's actions during the incident.