Browsing Tag

Philippines

13 posts

12 killed after fire rips through Philippine ferry

12 people died and 230 were rescued after a ferry caught fire off the coast of Basilan province in the southern Philippines. Passengers were forced to jump overboard, and rescuers saved 195 passengers and 35 crew. Seven people are still missing, and it is uncertain how the fire started. The Philippines has a history of poor sea transport regulations, leading to overcrowding and accidents.

Philippine fishermen struggle as oil spill keeps them ashore

The Philippine tanker disaster continues to spread toxic sludge and oil across the waters, affecting hundreds of kilometers of marine life. The government has banned fishing and swimming indefinitely, leaving thousands of fishermen to wonder how long they can survive. Despite cleanup efforts, the oil keeps coming back, and experts estimate it will take at least six months to clean up the spill, with recovery taking years. The disaster could not have come at a worse time for people living hand-to-mouth, and the government’s assistance may not be enough to sustain their livelihoods for an extended period.

Philippine police officer jailed for killing teens in rare drug war conviction

Philippine police officer Jefrey Perez has been found guilty of killing two teenagers during President Rodrigo Duterte’s drug war. Only three police officers have previously been convicted for killing a suspect during the crackdown, which sparked an investigation at the International Criminal Court. More than 6,200 people died in the anti-narcotics campaign, according to official figures, but rights groups estimate the actual figure was in the tens of thousands.