The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will conduct a final sweep of the MV June Aster on Saturday, Sept. 19, after its flooded engine room was drained and accessed by responders the previous night.

The operation will be carried out by a joint team from the PCG, the Philippine National Police (PNP) Forensic Group, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Coron Municipal Police Office.

PCG said the inspection is part of continuing search and response operations aboard the vessel after a fire broke out, causing a death toll of 77.

The coast guard also reported that two divers from the vessel’s designated salvor had conducted an initial underwater survey. The assessment is intended to support preparations for the ship’s salvage plan.

PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab, Coast Guard District Palawan Deputy Commander Capt. Adonis Añasco and four PCG legal officers also met with the victims’ families to hear their concerns and inquiries regarding the ongoing response.

The PCG said it remains committed to providing legal assistance to the families and would continue search, investigation, and response operations following the maritime incident.