A passenger ferry carrying more than 350 people has sunk off the southern Philippines after capsizing during a voyage between Mindanao and Jolo island, triggering a major rescue operation.
Authorities say the vessel was transporting 332 passengers and 27 crew members when it went down near waters off the Sulu archipelago. Initial reports confirmed several fatalities, with the death toll later rising to at least 15, while dozens were injured and 28 people remain unaccounted for.
More than 300 passengers were rescued as coast guard, military aircraft, and naval vessels rushed to the scene to assist survivors. Footage circulating from the incident shows people adrift at sea, clinging to life rafts and debris, many wearing life jackets. An official investigation is now underway to establish what caused the ferry to capsize.
