Philippine officials say at least 39 people have been killed after a passenger ferry overturned while being buffeted by sudden monsoon winds and waves south-east of Manila.
Army Maj Gen Jeffrey Sodusta says 76 people were rescued after the ML Don Dexter was battered shortly after leaving port in central Masbate island today. He says 39 bodies have been recovered, including eight children.
Masbate provincial police chief Reuben Sindac told Manila radio station DZBB the ferry had been sailing in relatively clear weather when it was hit by a sudden gust of wind.
PA