A fire ripped through a passenger ferry on Thursday as it approached Coron, Palawan, killing five people and leaving 86 still missing.

Rescuers said the blaze began shortly before the vessel reached the island’s main dock, turning the night‑time trip into a scene of panic.

"The flames spread within minutes, and people were thrown into the water," a coast guard spokesperson told the BBC.

Search and rescue mobilisation

The Philippine Coast Guard, navy and local police have deployed dozens of boats, helicopters and divers to the area. Night‑time aerial sweeps are ongoing, and a command centre has been set up at Coron’s municipal hall to coordinate efforts.

Families of the missing have gathered at the town’s community centre, where officials are registering names and issuing temporary assistance. The Red Cross is distributing blankets and food to those awaiting updates.

Scale of the tragedy

According to the ferry operator, the vessel was carrying 91 passengers and crew when the fire broke out. Five bodies have been recovered, while 86 passengers remain unaccounted for, officials said.

The incident follows a string of maritime accidents in the Philippines, a country whose archipelagic geography makes ferry travel essential but also risky. In 2022, a capsising ferry in the Visayas claimed more than 200 lives, prompting calls for stricter safety inspections.

Human impact and response

Many of the missing are tourists from South Korea, Japan and the United States, travelling to Coron’s famed limestone islands. Local businesses have suspended tours, and hotels are offering refunds to affected guests.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s office released a statement expressing “deep sorrow” and pledging that “all resources will be mobilised to bring the missing home.” The transport department said it will launch an investigation into the vessel’s safety compliance.

Search teams expect to continue through the night, with weather forecasts predicting calm seas that may aid recovery operations. The next update is due at dawn when additional divers are scheduled to board the wreckage.