PCG continues retrieval of missing bodies from Basilan ferry fire

By Arabella Asis  

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is still on the search for the missing passengers from the M/V Lady Mary Joy 3 which caught fire off Basilan waters last March 29.

On April 4, the body of Mr. Anacleto Ponollero Jr. was found in the vicinity waters of Sicagot Island, Basilan. 

Meanwhile, Mr. Jack B. Bungso was found between Lampinigan Island and Baluk-Baluk Island, Basilan on April 5. 

Coast Guard Station Isabela has also recovered the body of Philippine Army personnel SSgt. Cerbatos. 

As of 6:00 a.m, the PCG reported 29 casualties, including 17 recovered in the vessel and 12 recovered at sea. 

Around 216 out of 249 passengers survived the incident.

Cadavers were turned over to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Office (PDRRMO) and Scene of the Crime Operation (SOCO) for proper disposition and will be transported to Zamboanga City. –ag