At least five people were killed and 87 remain missing after a fire engulfed a passenger ferry off the western Philippines, triggering a massive search-and-rescue operation involving the coast guard, military units, local fishermen and private vessels.

The MV June Aster, carrying 117 passengers and 17 crew members, caught fire on Wednesday evening while approaching the tourist town of Coron in Palawan province after departing from Manila. Philippine authorities said 43 people, including two Chilean nationals, have been rescued so far, but the figures could change as search operations continue.

Search hampered by smoke and explosion risk

Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said rescue operations were continuing around the clock, but thick smoke, extreme heat and the risk of further explosions initially prevented teams from boarding the burned vessel.

Authorities deployed two 44-meter coast guard vessels, three high-speed response boats, a Philippine Navy ship, additional government rescue craft, local fishermen and private resort boats to search the surrounding waters. A military aircraft has also been placed on standby to assist if needed.

The coast guard has also alerted nearby vessels by radio to watch for survivors who may have drifted away from the ferry, while coastal communities have been asked to report anyone reaching shore.

Witness reports loud explosion

One survivor told investigators a powerful explosion was heard from the ferry's cargo hold moments before flames rapidly spread through the vessel.

Officials said the ferry was transporting five motorcycles, one electric vehicle, a forklift, a pickup truck and general cargo, but stressed that the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities said it is too early to rule out any possibility, including sabotage, although no evidence has yet been presented to support such a conclusion.

The Philippine Coast Guard is conducting a comprehensive investigation in coordination with the ferry operator, Atienza Inter-Island Ferries, and other maritime authorities. The company said it is fully cooperating with investigators and has mobilized all available resources to assist victims and their families.

Ferry transportation is a vital means of travel in the Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,600 islands, where millions rely on passenger vessels to move between provinces.

The country has experienced numerous deadly maritime disasters over the years, with investigators often citing overcrowding, severe weather, aging vessels and inadequate enforcement of safety regulations as contributing factors. (ILKHA)