Five dead, more than 80 missing after ferry catches fire in Philippines

A passenger ferry, the MV June Aster, caught fire off the coast of Palawan in the Philippines, resulting in at least five confirmed deaths and over 80 individuals reported missing. The incident prompted an immediate response from the Philippine Coast Guard, which has deployed multiple vessels and assets to conduct search and rescue operations in the area.

Authorities are currently utilizing drift-modeling techniques to assist in the search for survivors. Drone footage released by the coast guard shows the vessel significantly damaged by the fire, with smoke still rising from the wreckage as rescue efforts continue.