Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 9) — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Sunday recovered another body from the ill-fated passenger ferry in Basilan, bringing the total number of deaths to 32.
According to the PCG, the body of Alses Hassan was sighted in the waters off Langgas Island, Maluso, Basilan. He was one of the two missing passengers of MV Lady Mary Joy 3.
In a statement, the PCG said the search operation to look for the last missing passenger of the ill-fated vessel would continue.
The agency said coast guard personnel turned over the body to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Maluso for proper disposition.
The ferry was carrying over 200 passengers when it caught fire last March 29. According to the Bureau of Fire Protection Manila Arson Team, an electric short circuit may have caused the blaze.
READ: BFP: Electrical short circuit ‘most probable cause’ of Basilan ferry fire
On March 31, The Maritime Industry Authority said it has begun its marine safety investigation of MV Lady Mary Joy 3.
The ferry’s operator, Aleson Shipping Lines, Inc., said it has already extended financial assistance to the victims’ families.
READ: MARINA starts probe into Basilan ferry fire
