31 Dead Due to Ferry Fire in the Philippines

Thirty-one people have died and 230 have been rescued after a fire broke out on a ferry off the coast of Basilan province in southern Philippines. The commander of the coast guard on Mindanao Island in the south expected that the ferry was carrying up to 430 people. Photos published by the coast guard showed the ship "Lady Mary Joy 3" being doused with water while rescued passengers were transferred to shore. The Philippines, an archipelago with over 7,600 islands, has a poor record in maritime safety, as ships often sail overcrowded and many old vessels are still in operation.