Philippine rescuers board ferry 40 hours after blaze began

Rescuers in the Philippines have managed to board a ferry nearly 40 hours after a devastating fire broke out on board, according to reports from the BBC. The operation has been described as exceptionally difficult due to the presence of thick, toxic fumes and extreme temperatures that have persisted within the vessel's structure since the blaze began.

The incident, which has seen the death toll rise to 76 with several passengers still reported missing, remains a major focus for local authorities. Emergency teams are working under hazardous conditions to search the ship's interior, hoping to locate those who remain unaccounted for while navigating the structural damage caused by the intense heat.

As the search and recovery mission continues, the focus remains on the safety of the rescue personnel who are contending with the aftermath of the disaster. Further updates are expected as authorities gain better access to the lower decks of the ferry, which have been largely inaccessible since the fire started earlier this week.