The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
France and Australia have expressed sympathy to the Philippines following the deadly ferry fire off Coron, Palawan that left at least five people dead and 86 others missing.
The French Embassy in Manila conveyed its condolences to the victims’ families and expressed solidarity with Filipinos affected by the tragedy.
“Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy. We express our solidarity with the Filipino people and our sincere condolences during this difficult time,” the embassy said in a statement Thursday.
Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown likewise extended his condolences to the families of those who died and voiced hope that the missing passengers would be found.
“I extend my deepest condolences to those impacted by the tragic ferry incident in Palawan. We very much hope that those missing will be located,” he said in a post on X.
The MV June Aster was carrying 134 people, including 117 passengers and 17 crew members, when it caught fire off the coast of Coron on Wednesday evening.
The Philippine Coast Guard confirmed five fatalities and said search-and-rescue operations were continuing for at least 86 people still unaccounted for.
The incident has prompted an ongoing maritime search as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the fire and account for everyone who was aboard the vessel.