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Philippines ferry carrying 251 capsizes Philippines ferry carrying 251 capsizes
(about 4 hours later)
A ferry carrying 251 people has capsized in stormy seas off the east coast of the Philippines, the coastguard says. A ferry carrying 251 people has capsized in stormy seas off the east coast of the Philippines.
A spokesman said a number of casualties had been reported. Huge waves are said to have caused the boat to overturn. Local fisherman and rescue boats saved more than 200 of those on board - but at least four people died and seven are missing, the coastguard says.
Reports say local boats have already rescued some passengers on board the vessel near the island of Polillo. Passengers say large waves and strong winds meant the vessel started taking in water near the island of Polillo - and quickly sank.
Rescue boats and helicopters sent to the area have been hampered by bad weather, officials say. Rescuers said they were hampered by heavy rain and big waves.
At least four bodies have been recovered, while many passengers have been saved, local media report. Coastguard spokesman Armand Balilo said the ferry had capacity for 280 people and had not been overloaded.
However, coastguard spokesman Armand Balilo said they were "still validating" the number of casualties. "We believe the weather was a big factor [in the accident]," he added.
"We believe the weather was a big factor" in the accident, he said, adding that the ferry had capacity for 280 people and had not been overloaded.
A local emergency services official, Juanito Diaz, said initial reports suggested the ferry, which has not been named, "sustained a big hole that caused it to capsize".
Boat accidents are relatively common in the Philippines, which frequently experiences storms.Boat accidents are relatively common in the Philippines, which frequently experiences storms.
Tropical Storm Tembin is forecast to hit land early on Friday and people travelling home for Christmas had been warned to do so earlier than usual.Tropical Storm Tembin is forecast to hit land early on Friday and people travelling home for Christmas had been warned to do so earlier than usual.
Do you know anyone on board? If it is safe for you to do so, please get in touch by emailing haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk.Do you know anyone on board? If it is safe for you to do so, please get in touch by emailing haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk.
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