MANILA: Seven people have been killed after a high-speed Philippine boat caught fire. Seven passengers have not yet been located, the Coast Guard said.
The crash happened about 60 kilometers (37 miles) east of the capital, Manila, before reaching the real port of Guizan.
120 passengers were rescued from the boat carrying 134 people. 23 of them were treated for injuries, the Coast Guard said in a statement.
“While the boat was traveling 134, suddenly the boat caught fire. Bala jumped into the sea to survive. Seven people, five women and two men, were killed in the accident. The cause of the fire was not immediately clear, “said Reuters.
Port officials rescued the crew with another boat and took them ashore. The unconscious were given first aid and they were taken to the hospital by ambulance for further treatment. Authorities said seven were still missing. Image: AFP