Philippine coast guard rescues 120 people as ferry catches fire

M/V Esperanza Star - Photo credit: Philippine Coast Guard/AP

The Philippine coast guard reported that a vessel with 120 passengers on board caught fire near the island of Bohol, Philippines, on Sunday (18). 

Videos shared by the Philippine Coast Guard showed flames rising from the rear of the MV Esperanza Star. 

Philippines tracked via ShipXplorer.com

According to the coast guard, all 120 passengers and crew were safely evacuated from the ship. They confirmed that the fire had been extinguished, and no injuries were reported. The incident occurred while the ship was en route from the Philippine islands of Siquijor to Bohol.

Philippine Coast Guard/Handout via Reuters

The coast guard posted a statement on Facebook, stating that their rescue vessels would remain in the waters of Panglao, Bohol, to monitor the situation.