Philippine Ferry Catches Fire at Sea; All 120 Passengers and Crew Rescued

The M/V Esperanza Star ferry caught fire while traveling between islands in the central Philippines, prompting a rescue mission by the Philippine coast guard.
All 65 passengers and 55 crew members aboard the ferry were rescued safely after the fire raged for more than five hours.
The coast guard deployed two vessels to help extinguish the flames and rescue those on board.
Maritime accidents are common in the Philippines due to storms, old ships, overcrowding, and lax safety standards.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is now underway as survivors have been brought to shore.