DOLE issues work stoppage order vs operator of MV June Aster

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The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has ordered a work stoppage against the operator of MV June Aster following a fire last September that killed at least 77 passengers.

The work stoppage order covers six vessels operated by Atienza InterIsland Ferries Inc. after DOLE found labor policy violations, including the absence of occupational safety and health programs and a safety officer, according to Manny Vargas' report on Super Radyo dzBB.

DOLE Secretary Francis Tolentino said the six vessels are prohibited from sailing until the company responds to the violations found by the agency.

These vessels are the following:

• MV Star San Carlos
• MV September Tulips
• MV December Poinsettia
• MV October Lavender
• MV May Lilies
• MV November Cattleya

Meanwhile, employees of Atienza must continue to receive their salary despite the work stoppage, DOLE said.

The company has until Oct. 23 to respond and follow the DOLE order.

A P10,000 fine will be imposed on the company if they fail to do so.

GMA News Online has reached out to Atienza InterIsland Ferries Inc. for comment and will publish it once available.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection, improperly secured chlorine and asphalt cargo may have contributed to the fire aboard the MV June Aster off Coron, Palawan.

BFP said the vessel was carrying chlorine containers that were not securely fastened, potentially allowing the chemical to come into contact with the asphalt cargo.

The Philippine Coast Guard has identified 60 fatalities of the MD June Aster, while 11 others are still in the process of identification. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/AOL, GMA News