Philippine: 120 people onboard a ferry that caught fire off the Philippine island of Bohol on 18th June 2023 have been successfully rescued, according to the country’s coast guard. The incident involved the MV Esperanza Star, which was carrying 65 passengers and 55 officers and crew members while travelling from Siquijor Island to nearby Bohol Island.

Videos shared by the Philippine Coast Guard depicted flames and billows of black smoke emerging from the rear of the vessel. Coast guard firefighters from another ship utilized a water cannon to extinguish the fire by around 0200 GMT. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and two coast guard vessels involved in firefighting and rescue operations remained in the vicinity of the incident.

Details regarding the whereabouts and condition of the rescued passengers and crew members have not been disclosed at this time. The Philippine Coast Guard announced through a statement on Facebook that their rescue ships would continue to monitor the situation in the waters of Panglao, Bohol.

The Philippines, consisting of over 7,600 islands, has faced challenges in maintaining maritime safety, with issues such as overcrowding and the use of ageing ships. In March 2023, another ferry fire occurred in the southern Philippines, resulting in the deaths of more than two dozen people, including a six-month-old infant. Investigations into maritime safety and the prevention of similar incidents will likely be conducted to address these concerns.

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