Ferry Fire Exposes Philippines' Enduring Maritime Risks The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,100 islands, where inter island ferries are a lifeline for millions.
But this vital transportation network has been plagued by frequent accidents. The most recent disaster left at least five dead and 86 missing after a fire broke out on the MV June Aster ferry.
The country's maritime woes are not new. Severe weather conditions, including an average of 20 typhoons annually, pose a significant threat to ferry operations.