Search and rescue crews have recovered nine more bodies from a ferry that capsized some 200 meters off the Port of Ormoc City yesterday, increasing the total death toll to 45, according to the Philippine Coast Guard.
One more person was rescued today, bringing the total number of survivors to 142.
The 27-meter ferry Kim Nirvana-B capsized around 12 pm local time yesterday, with 173 passengers and 14 crew members on board.
The ferry was bound for the town of Pilar on the Camotes Island when it capsized, reportedly due to strong winds.
The survivors were taken to local hospitals in Ormoc City.
At around 8 pm local time yesterday, PCG dispatched the Search and Rescue Vessel BRP Batangas to tow the capsized Kim Nirvana-B to an area where it would be easier to search the vessel.
The Kim Nirvana-B is a so-called ”banka,” a pump-boat shaped as a large canoe with outriggers for stability.
World Maritime News Staff