Philippine Rescuers Extract Additional Victims from Burned Ferry in Cebu

Philippine rescuers extracted additional victims from a ferry that had caught fire in Cebu on September 13, 2026. The incident occurred during a rescue operation following the initial extraction of survivors. At least 15 bodies were recovered from the charred vessel.

Rescuers from the Philippine Coast Guard and local emergency services worked through the night to extract survivors from the ferry, which had been engulfed in flames. The ferry, which was carrying approximately 120 passengers, sank in the Visayan Sea near Cebu City. At least 15 bodies were recovered from the wreckage, with the death toll expected to rise as the search continues. The incident is being investigated by the Philippine National Police and the Coast Guard to determine the cause of the fire. Initial reports suggest the fire may have started due to an electrical fault on board. The ferry, named MV Cebu Express, was en route from Cebu City to Mandaue City when the fire broke out. The exact number of casualties remains under investigation, with officials warning of potential further casualties as the wreckage is still unstable. Sources report that the fire was discovered shortly after 10 p.m. local time, and the rescue operation began immediately. The Philippine government has declared a state of emergency in the region, with additional resources being deployed to support the ongoing search and recovery efforts.