World · World News Bureau
Philippines ferry fire death toll reaches 35 as search continues
Rescue efforts at the burnt-out vessel have been hampered by toxic fumes and extreme heat, according to the country's coast guard. Dozens of passengers remain unaccounted for following the disaster.
LSN World News ·
The death toll from a ferry fire in the Philippines has climbed to 35, with maritime authorities warning that the final casualty count could rise as search and recovery operations continue.
Access to the charred remains of the vessel has been severely restricted due to hazardous conditions at the scene. Coast guard officials cited toxic fumes and lingering heat as major obstacles to recovery efforts, slowing the pace at which teams can board and search the burnt-out hull.
Authorities have not yet released comprehensive details about the number of passengers aboard the ferry at the time of the incident or provided a specific accounting of those confirmed missing. The vessel's manifest and passenger records are expected to provide clarity on the total number of people who were on board.
Investigations into the cause of the fire remain ongoing. The incident has renewed scrutiny of maritime safety protocols in Philippine waters, where ferry services carry millions of passengers annually across the country's archipelago.