Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 13) — Authorities have found the body of the last missing passenger of the ferry that caught fire in Basilan two weeks ago, bringing the final death toll to 33.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Thursday identified the passenger as a Philippine army personnel, whose remains were retrieved on Tuesday in waters off Barangay Sulutan Matangal, Hadji Mohammad Adjul.
According to the PCG, MV Lady Mary Joy 3 had 249 passengers when it went up in flames on March 29 while on its way to Jolo, Sulu.
The Maritime Industry Authority has begun its investigation into the incident, while a lawmaker is also seeking a separate probe in the House of Representatives.
The Bureau of Fire Protection earlier said an electric short circuit may have caused the fire.
