Ferry capsized in Central Philippines; 40 dead

MANILA, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / Nov. 4, 2008) – Dozens of ferry passengers have died after their vessel capsized Tuesday in the central Philippine province of Masbate, authorities said.

Coast Guard and fishermen rescued more than 70 people from the ill-fated MV Dexter Kathleen. Authorities said as many as 40 passengers were confirmed, including children, after the vessel, battered by huge waves and strong wind, capsized at around noontime.

It was unclear how many passengers were in the boat, but other reports said the vessel was overload, although this could not be independently confirmed. Many of the passengers were not listed on the ferry’s manifest.

Search and rescue operation was halted later in the day because of bad weather and poor visibility, but it is expected to resume by day break. The ferry was heading to Sorsogon province from the Masbate town of Dimasalang. (Mindanao Examiner)

Commies Kill 2 Soldiers In Sorsogon Province

MANILA, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / 30 Jul) – Two government soldiers were killed and seven more wounded in a clash with communist insurgents in the province of Sorsogon, east of Manila.

The Philippine News Agency said the fighting occurred late Sunday in the town called Juban and that two civilians were injured in the cross-fire.

It said the soldiers were patrolling a remote village when members of the New People’s Army attacked them sparking a firefight that lasted more than four hours.

About 70 NPA gunmen were involved in the attack. There were no immediate reports of NPA casualties, but security officials said more troops were sent to the town to hunt down the insurgents.

The NPA, armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, is fighting the past decades for the establishment of a Maoist state in the country. (Mindanao Examiner)