LAMITAN CITY, Basilan — Four more cadavers out of the missing passengers of the ill-fated MV Lady Mary Joy 3 were fished out between the waters of Lampinigan and Baluk-baluk Island in Basilan Province during the last two days.
The personnel of Coast Guard Basilan Station recovered the cadavers of Jack B. Bungso, a resident of Maimbung, Sulu; SSgt Andrew Cerbatos, a member of the Philippine Army, Julkipli Ahijon Jr. and Anacelto Ponollero Jr., in yesterday and today’s operations.
The cadavers were brought to their respective cities and towns after it was turned-over by the Philippines Coast Guard to Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office and the Scene of the Crime Operative (SOCO) for proper disposition and transport.
Earlier today, the floating body of Ahijon was identified through his personal belongings by the family members,
But there were cadavers that were beyond recognition which needed a DNA test,
The provincial government provided P50,000 cash assistance to the bereaved families and other forms of assistance through the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD).
Ahijon said they were waiting for word from Aleson Shipping Lines for the DNA testing of the cadavers that were beyond recognition.
Late yesterday, the Coast Guard personnel also fished out the cadaver of Anacleto Ponollero Jr,. a resident of Luste Street, Barangay Catalina, Zamboanga City.
The cadavers of Cerbatos and Penollero were fished out from Sicagot Island, South Gaunan in the municipality of Hadji Mutahmad.
As it is now, the search and retrieval team of the Philippine Coast Guard are still searching for 20 more passengers of the ill-fated ship.
