Planning to take a ferry for your next island getaway? A recent incident in Palawan reminds travelers that getting to the destination safely should always be part of the trip.

Last week’s incident which was traveling from Manila to Coron, Palawan, caught fire on September 9 while sailing off Coron. The vessel had 134 people on board, including 117 passengers and 17 crew members.
As of September 16, authorities have reported 77 deaths, 43 survivors, and 12 people still missing. The death toll increased after one of the rescued passengers died while receiving treatment.

The Philippine Coast Guard and other authorities continue to investigate what caused the fire and what happened during the emergency.

For travelers, the incident is a reminder to stay aware whenever taking an inter-island ferry. Before boarding, passengers are encouraged to pay attention to the crew’s safety briefing, know where the life jackets and emergency exits are, and keep updated on weather and sea conditions.
No one wants their vacation playlist to come with an emergency plot twist. So whether you’re heading to Coron, Cebu, Batangas, or any other island destination, a little preparation can go a long way.

Because the goal of every trip is simple: enjoy the journey, make the memories, and arrive safely.