Senator Urges Swift Compensation for MV June Aster Fire Victims

Senator Erwin T. Tulfo on Sunday called for immediate government action to deliver fair compensation to survivors and bereaved family members of the MV June Aster ferry fire. As of Sept. 17, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) identified a total of 128 persons onboard the ferry through verified ticket manifests, including 43 survivors, 77 dead, and eight missing. In a statement, the senator said this followed reports that grieving families were allegedly told to return home and wait for their loved ones’ remains. “Victims are coming to my office desperate for help because no one from the company is taking care of them after the incident. We cannot let this slide,” Mr. Tulfo said. Mr. Tulfo also urged the PCG and the Maritime Industry Authority to fast-track investigations and hold the shipping company accountable. The PCG finished evidence gathering aboard the MV June Aster on Sept. 19, according to a Facebook update by PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie G. Cayabyab. A joint team including the PCG, Philippine National Police-Forensic Unit, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Coron Municipal Police, conducted the final sweep of the vessel. In the same update, the PCG noted that representatives of Atienza Interisland Ferries, Inc. and its hired salvor, C.V. Gaspar Salvage and Lighterage Corp., are discussing measures to expedite salvage operations. This incident underscores the critical need for robust safety measures in maritime transport within the Philippines and the effectiveness of corporate and governmental response mechanisms during disasters. Prompt and appropriate compensation and information provision are essential to alleviate the emotional and financial burdens of victims and their families following tragedies like ferry fires that result in numerous casualties.