On April 3, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Basilan revealed that the devastating fire aboard the MV Lady Mary Joy 3 on March 29 was likely caused by faulty electrical wiring, specifically a short circuit. This incident occurred off an island in Basilan and had grave consequences, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 28 passengers. Many of the deceased were discovered either submerged in the waters or burned within the vessel, and two Army soldiers remain unaccounted for.
BFP-Basilan chief Senior Superintendent Kadil Acalul outlined these findings after an investigative team from Manila arrived to assess the situation. They inspected the now-grounded ferry at Baluk-Baluk Island in Hadji Mutamad town. Acalul noted that while the initial evidence pointed toward an electrical cause for the fire, definitive confirmation would depend on further examination of all gathered evidence, underscoring the complexity of the incident.
In addition to the human cost, the financial impact of the fire is significant, with damage estimates reaching approximately P100 million. Nickson Alonzo, head of Basilan’s Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, stated that the search for additional passengers has now been halted. Following the incident, the ferry’s owner, Aleson Shipping Lines, is expected to tow the damaged vessel back to Zamboanga City.
The findings shed light on the potential vulnerabilities of maritime operations in the region, prompting discussions on safety regulations and the maintenance of vessels to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The BFP’s investigation aims to ensure accountability and to enhance the safety measures within the shipping industry, particularly concerning electrical systems on passenger ferries.
