Philippines tourist boat fire death toll rises to 76, tell me about this news in (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-13/philippines-tourist-boat-fire-death-toll-rises-to-76/107147136)

The confirmed death toll from a fire aboard the Philippine passenger-cargo ferry MV June Aster has risen to 76, after search teams recovered dozens of additional bodies from the burned vessel.Key Details of the Disaster:

• Incident: On the evening of Wednesday, September 9, 2026, a major fire erupted on board the MV June Aster as it approached Coron, a popular tourist destination in Palawan province. The ship had departed from Manila carrying 117 passengers and 17 crew members, alongside cargo that included several vehicles.
• Casualties and Search Efforts: Initial rescue operations confirmed 5 dead and 43 rescued (30 passengers, including two Chilean tourists, and 13 crew members). As recovery teams and the Philippine Coast Guard were able to safely board and inspect the charred interior of the vessel once the fire was fully extinguished, an additional 41 remains were discovered, bringing the confirmed death toll to 76. Approximately 13 individuals remain unaccounted for.
• Rescue and Identification: Local fishermen, disaster management teams, and coast guard personnel helped pull survivors from the water, many of whom had jumped overboard to escape the rapidly advancing flames. Forensic specialists in Coron have begun the process of identifying victims through personal effects and DNA testing.
• Investigation: Survivors reported hearing an explosion near the lower cargo hold shortly before smoke and fire spread through the decks. Maritime authorities and the Philippine Coast Guard have launched a formal investigation to determine the exact cause of the blaze and assess safety compliance and carrier liability.