31 dead, 7 missing in Philippine ferry fire tragedy.

A ferry caught fire off the coast of Basilan in the southern Philippines, killing at least 31 of the approximately 250 passengers and crew. Many of the more than 200 survivors were rescued from the dark sea by the coast guard, navy, a nearby ferry, and local fishermen. The ferry was traveling to Jolo town in Sulu province from the southern port city of Zamboanga when it caught fire. Rescuers are still searching for at least seven missing people. Officials are investigating whether the ferry was seaworthy, if there were passengers not listed on the manifest, and whether the crew properly guided passengers to safety.