The Department of Transportation (DOTr), Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) have assured survivors and families of those who died in the fire aboard passenger vessel MV June Aster in Coron, Palawan, of continued government assistance and expedited processing of insurance claims.

According to a report by RH Tina Nolasco, the agencies’ efforts follow President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for government agencies to immediately extend support and facilitate appropriate compensation for the victims and their families.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the department is taking steps to ensure that affected families do not have to wait long to receive financial assistance.

To speed up the release of insurance claims and other financial assistance, MARINA issued a formal demand letter to Interclaim Adjustment Inc., the insurance adjuster handling the claims, urging it to immediately facilitate the processing of the financial assistance.

MARINA also coordinated with the Insurance Commission to direct the vessel’s insurer, Western Guaranty Corp., to expedite the processing of the claims.

A help desk has been established on the fourth floor of the Coron Municipal Hall to coordinate assistance for the survivors and families. The desk brings together MARINA, the local government, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), PCG and Atienza Lines.

MARINA also directed Atienza Lines (Atienza Interisland Ferry Inc.) management to strengthen the provision of food and medical assistance to the survivors.

Meanwhile, MARINA has deployed an investigation team to look into the incident. The team, led by MARINA Regional Office IV, will coordinate with the PCG and other concerned government agencies.

MARINA has also begun a marine safety investigation to determine the cause of the fire.

The MV June Aster caught fire in Coron, Palawan, on September 9, prompting rescue and response operations for passengers and crew aboard the vessel.