Flammable Cargo Identified As Cause Of Deadly Ferry Fire
Flammable cargo has been identified as the cause of a ferry fire that tragically claimed 77 lives off the Philippines coast earlier this month, highlighting the potentially devastating consequences of unsafe dangerous goods transport.
The fire broke out aboard the MV June Aster off Coron, Palawan, on 9 September, with initial reports describing an explosion in the vessel’s cargo hold.
According to the Philippines’ Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), a substantial quantity of flammable cargo was being carried aboard the ferry and had not been properly secured. Investigators also examined how the goods were stowed, stressing that flammable cargo should be kept away from passenger areas.
Although the official investigation report had yet to be released at the time of reporting, a MARINA spokesperson attributed the fire to the cargo. The specific substances involved have not been disclosed. Alongside the 77 confirmed deaths, eight people remain missing and 43 survived.
Administrative charges have been filed against the ferry’s captain, while a separate investigation involving the Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine National Police is also under way.
The tragedy underlines why dangerous goods require specialist attention. Correct classification, declaration, packaging, securing and segregation are essential safeguards throughout the transport process.
At Evolution Forwarding, we provide specialist dangerous goods logistics support, helping customers navigate the requirements associated with sensitive and hazardous shipments. Contact our team for expert guidance on planning and arranging your dangerous goods movements.
