The Philippine Coast Guard says it has recovered 30 bodies from the wreckage of a ferry that caught fire this week, bringing the total death toll to 35.
More than 130 people were on board the MV June Aster when the blaze erupted on Wednesday as it neared its destination at the tourist hotspot of Coron, after departing from Manila.
Forty-three people were rescued, with many receiving treatment in hospital, and searches continue for more than 50 people who remain unaccounted for.
The country’s coast guard says more bodies remain on the boat, which they were unable to board until Friday due to toxic fumes and lingering heat.
In a press conference, coast guard spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said most bodies had been retrieved from the sleeping area of the boat, which had been making a 22-hour journey.
“Agencies are currently undertaking the proper recovery and identification of the remains in accordance with established procedures,” Cayabyab said.
“We recognise the grief of the families affected by this tragic incident.”
Earlier, the coast guard said preliminary interviews with the survivors suggest that the fire started in the cargo hold. Some passengers were not wearing life vests, they noted.
A survivor who was hauled to safety on a rescue boat told the BBC he had heard frantic cries onboard when the fire erupted, and was trampled by panicked people as he tried to escape.
The Philippines’ maritime authority is investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The ferry, built in 2002, held valid safety certificates and passed an enforcement inspection in March, but investigators are looking into potential manifest discrepancies, cargo loading integrity, and crew emergency response protocols, the Palawan Daily reported.
The vessel was carrying 117 passengers and 17 crew members.
Atienza Interisland Ferries, the vessel’s operator, has pledged full cooperation with the inquiry.
“Our hearts remain with the affected families, and we will not rest until all individuals are accounted for,” the company said in a statement on Thursday.