Philippines: Boat Fire Kills 76 People

The death toll rose on Saturday after search teams recovered 41 more bodies from inside the vessel, which was almost completely destroyed by the flames.

The ferry was travelling to Coron, in Palawan Province, when the fire started. According to authorities, the flames spread rapidly through the vessel, making it difficult for passengers to escape.

At least 12 people remain missing.

Rescue teams have focused their search on the economy-class section, where several passengers are believed to have been trapped after the explosion.

The recovered bodies are being taken to the port of Coron, where authorities are working to identify the victims.

Personal belongings and DNA testing are being used to assist with identification because of the condition in which some of the bodies were found.

Thirty passengers and 13 crew members were rescued alive.

The Philippine Coast Guard continues to search for the missing and investigate the cause of the explosion that triggered the fire.

The accident has renewed concerns over maritime safety in the Philippines, a country made up of thousands of islands where ferries are widely used.

Authorities are expected to examine the condition of the vessel, the cargo it was carrying and the safety procedures followed before and during the journey.