5 dead, 87 missing as rescue operation continues — Philippines ferry fire

MV June Aster burns as flames and smoke rise after a fire broke out on the ferry, off the coast of Palawan, Philippines | Philippine Coast Guard/Handout via REUTERS

A fire broke out on a passenger ferry in waters off western Philippines, leaving dozens of people missing, the coast guard said on Thursday.

At least five people were killed.

So far, 42 people have been rescued and efforts are ongoing, so the count of 87 people missing may change, coast guard spokeswoman Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said in a radio interview.