🔻The Philippine Coast Guard says the number of victims of the cruise ship «MV Joy Easter» has risen to 35 people. According to officials, more than 50 people are still missing.

The ship suffered a fire on Wednesday, 18 Shahrivar/9 September, while approaching its destination, the tourist city of Coron. The coast guard said 43 people have been rescued, some of whom are receiving treatment in hospital.

Rescue forces were unable to enter the ship for up to two days after the fire due to the presence of toxic gases and extreme heat.

Based on the initial statements of survivors, the fire likely started in the ship’s cargo area.

Built in 2002, the ship had 117 passengers and 17 crew members at the time of the incident. Investigations are ongoing into the cause of the fire.