A ferry caught fire off the coast of Palawan, Philippines, killing at least five people and leaving 86 others missing, according to the Philippine Coast Guard. The incident occurred near a popular tourist destination, raising concerns over safety in the region. Emergency services are working to locate the missing passengers, while authorities investigate the cause of the fire.
The fire broke out on Thursday, September 10, and the Coast Guard released footage showing the smoldering remains of the vessel. Initial reports suggest the ferry was carrying both locals and tourists when the blaze erupted. Rescue operations are ongoing, with teams searching for survivors in the surrounding waters.
The tragedy has sparked calls for improved maritime safety measures in the area. Local officials have expressed shock over the incident, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Immigration confirmed that the Cayetano siblings, including Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, had traveled abroad earlier in the week.
The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, with authorities urging patience as they work to determine what led to the disaster.
