MANILA — Joint authorities declared the fire aboard MV June Aster out at around 10:15 a.m. Friday, Sept. 11, in the waters off Coron, Palawan.

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said the Coast Guard response team conducted a safety assessment of the vessel after the fire was extinguished.

During the assessment, responders observed burnt remains inside the vessel’s economy accommodation area.

“The PCG, PNP-SOCO, and other concerned agencies are currently undertaking the proper recovery and identification of the remains in accordance with established procedures,” Cayabyab said.

“We recognize the grief of the families affected by this tragic incident. Rest assured that operations are carried out with utmost respect for the deceased and their bereaved families,” she added.

The PCG also deployed oil spill booms as a precautionary measure after the assessment found no signs of oil sheen in the surrounding waters.