MANILA, Sept. 12 (Xinhua) -- The death toll from the vessel fire on Wednesday off the waters of the tourist hotspot Palawan Province of the Philippines rose to 76, with 13 still missing, said the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Saturday.
According to the PCG, 41 additional bodies have been found, bringing the total number of confirmed fatalities to 76. The number of survivors remains at 43.
Footage released by the PCG shows the passenger ferry heavily charred, with ashes and burnt metal visible at the scene.
Rescue and investigation are underway.
The ferry departed Manila and caught fire near waters off Coron Municipality, a well-known tourist destination. According to the passenger manifest, 134 people, including 117 passengers and 17 crew members, were listed on board. Two passengers later told authorities they did not embark.
Ferry is a frequent mode of transport across the Philippine archipelago. Due to bad weather, poor vessel maintenance, and weak enforcement of safety regulations, maritime accidents occur from time to time. ■