March 31, 2023: The death toll has risen to over 35 including around four children after a ferry caught fire in Philippines late Wednesday. Around 230 persons rescued and several people went missing after the incident.

According to officials, the ferry was not overloaded and can accommodate at least 403 people.

The rescuers including the Philippine Coast Guard and fishermen saved around 195 passengers and 35 crew members after fire engulfed the ferry. However, the rescue operation is still underway.

The reason behind the fire is not known yet. It is suspected that the fire started in an air-conditioned cabin when all the passengers were asleep.

The survivors have been shifted to the hospitals of Zamboanga and Basilan for their treatment of burn injuries.