Deadly Explosion on Philippine Passenger Ferry; 76 Dead, 13 Missing

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) – International Service: Coast Guard officials report that 43 passengers have been rescued so far, and search operations for victims and the missing are ongoing.

 

The incident occurred in the waters west of the Philippines; according to local officials, the fire spread rapidly across the vessel. A Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson stated that rescue teams managed to save 43 people from the flames and the water, though the death toll continues to rise. Operations to recover bodies and locate the 13 missing individuals are proceeding with the use of vessels and helicopters.

 

One survivor told local media that he heard an explosion before the fire spread. He recounted that following the blast, thick smoke and flames rapidly engulfed the ship, while strong winds fueled the fire's expansion. This account has not yet been confirmed or denied by officials, and the exact cause of the explosion is under investigation.

 

Due to its geographical location within the tropical storm belt and along busy maritime routes, the Philippines frequently faces the risk of maritime accidents. Safety standards for passenger ferries in the country have repeatedly drawn criticism from experts, and officials have pledged to investigate the causes of this incident.