Philippines: Ferry Carrying 350 Passengers Sinks, At Least 18 Killed | Spotlight

At least 18 people have been confirmed dead after a passenger ferry carrying more than 350 passengers and crew sank off the southern coast of the Philippines. The vessel went down near Basilan province while traveling from Mindanao to Jolo Island, prompting a large-scale search and rescue operation. Authorities say 317 people have been rescued, but dozens remain missing. Survivors reported rough seas, strong winds, and dangerous conditions at the time of the incident. Emergency responders and medical facilities are struggling to cope with the scale of the disaster as investigations continue into the cause of the sinking.