Ferry Sinks Off Philippines, 18 Dead, Hundreds Rescued

• A ferry carrying over 350 people sank near an island in the southern Philippines early Monday, resulting in at least 18 deaths.
• Rescuers saved hundreds of passengers and crew, while search operations continue for about two dozen missing individuals.
• The M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, sailing from Zamboanga to Jolo island, reportedly encountered technical problems and abruptly tilted.
• A rescued passenger, Mohamad Khan, tragically lost his 6-month-old baby in the incident.
• Sea accidents are common in the Philippines due to frequent storms, poor vessel maintenance, overcrowding, and lax safety enforcement.

Why It Matters: A ferry disaster in the Philippines killed 18, highlighting persistent maritime safety issues in the region.