A passenger ship sank early Monday near Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan, leaving at least 10 people dead and prompting ongoing search and rescue operations for missing passengers.
Basilan Gov. Mujiv Hataman said the vessel went down around 1 a.m. Authorities reported that 223 passengers had been rescued as of 6 a.m.
Officials confirmed that at least 10 fatalities were recorded, including a 6-month-old infant. Search teams continued looking for other passengers, including children and senior citizens who were still unaccounted for.
Survivors said many passengers were asleep when the ship suddenly tilted, causing panic and making it difficult for some to escape. Several people were reportedly unable to get out in time, while others were believed trapped inside cabins and air-conditioned rooms.
Rescued passengers were transported to hospitals in Isabela City for treatment of injuries, bruises, and other medical concerns, authorities said.
Emergency responders remained in the area as operations continued to locate those missing and to provide assistance to survivors.
The cause of the sinking was not immediately known. Authorities said an investigation was underway to determine what led to the incident.
The sinking adds to continued concerns over maritime safety in the southern Philippines, where passenger vessels are a primary mode of transport between islands.
Hataman said officials were coordinating closely with responders as search efforts continued. Further updates were expected as authorities worked to account for all passengers and crew members.
No additional details were immediately released regarding the total number of people onboard or the vessel’s intended route at the time of the incident.
