Flash News

Bota

A ferry catches fire in the Philippines, 12 dead including three children

A ferry catches fire in the Philippines, 12 dead including three children

A tragic balance, where 12 people have died, 14 were injured and 7 others are missing after a ferry caught fire near the southern Philippine province of Basilan.

Foreign media reports that the ferry Lady Mary Joy 3 was traveling from Zamboanga City in Mindanao Island to Jolo Island in Sulu Province when the fire broke out, causing passengers to jump overboard.

Rescue teams, including the Philippine Coast Guard and fishermen intervened to save 195 passengers and 35 crew members. The survivors were taken to the hospital in Zamboanga and Basilan where the injured are receiving medical assistance.

Basilan Governor Jim Salliman said there could be more people missing.

"Twelve dead have been brought out ... three of them are children, including a six-month-old baby," Salliman said.

Latest news