Fire on passenger ferry in Philippines leaves dozens missing and at least 5 dead

A fire broke out and burned overnight on a passenger ferry off the western Philippines, resulting in at least five deaths and leaving dozens of passengers missing. The incident prompted a rescue operation in the area.

According to coast guard spokeswoman Commodore Noemie Cayabyab, emergency responders have successfully rescued 43 people from the vessel. Authorities continue search and rescue efforts for the remaining missing passengers as the investigation into the cause of the overnight fire proceeds.