The Palawan Provincial Board is urging Atienza Interisland Ferries Inc. to provide professional psychological support to survivors and families affected by the September 9 fire aboard MV June Aster, citing the long-term trauma they may experience.
Board Member Cherry Pie Acosta said the shipping company should develop a recovery program for those affected, noting that the initial psychological intervention provided by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Coron may not be enough to address their emotional distress.
“Ang kinakaharap nila ay hindi biro, trauma sa survivors natin. Hindi ganon kadali lang—taon ang igugugol nito, minsan habambuhay pa. Kailangan natin ng qualified mental health professionals na titingin sa kanila,” Acosta said.
The fire broke out aboard MV June Aster while the vessel was traveling from Manila off the coast of Coron. The incident killed 77 people, while 43 survived.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) recently identified about 63 of the 77 fatalities. The bureau said improperly secured chlorine and asphalt cargo may have contributed to the fire, with the interaction between the two substances possibly triggering the blaze.
Investigators also found that a faulty ventilation system aboard the vessel discharged hot air that may have contributed to the ignition.
Acosta said survivors could find it difficult to resume their lives while coping with memories of the incident. She urged the shipping company to provide sessions with qualified mental health professionals to help them process their experiences and manage emotional distress.
“Ang kahilingan natin ay baka pupwede bigyan nila ng pagkakataon din na magkaroon man lang ng ilang session na maka-recover sila. Ano ba ang proseso para ma-overcome ang trauma at emotional distress. Talagang hindi biro ang may hinaharap na anxiety, pwedeng ikasira ng kanilang kaisipan,” she added.
