2 bodies from sunken Palawan ship recovered

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recovered last Sunday two decomposing bodies, believed to be from the M/V Josille II, the wooden-hulled cargo and passenger ship that sank off Palawan last June 12. 

PCG spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Armand Balilo said the bodies – a man and a woman – were found in separate areas in Barangay Binudac in Cullion. 

“The male body was identified as Jolito Buenafe. We were able to identify him through his driver’s license. As for the still unidentified female body, hopefully there would be a relative who could identify the body,” said Balilo. 

Balilo said the discovery of the two bodies brings the death toll to nine, with one person still missing. Fifty-six people have been rescued.

He assured the public that the search and rescue operations will continue for the remaining missing passenger. 

Balilo said the Board of Marine Inquiry will also be convened to determine why the vessel sank.