At Least 37 Die in Sinking of Philippine Ship

Survivors of a Philippine passenger ferry that sank with 430 people aboard were being plucked from chilly, storm-whipped waters Saturday, while anxious relatives waited at a pier for two rescue ships.

The Princess of the Orient tilted in stormy weather Friday, then quickly sank. At least 305 people had been brought safely ashore by today and 37 bodies recovered.

Navy and coast guard ships resumed their search this morning, while the governor of Cavite province organized a flotilla of small boats to search for the 88 missing.

Survivors floated for hours in life preservers on rough seas and were covered in black oil from the ship, their eyes bloodshot. Some were picked up by a passing fishing boat, while others were lifted from the water by helicopters or navy ships.

Pablo Sy wept Saturday as he waited to find out whether his wife and two sons survived. When he saw his wife and older boy coming off one rescue ship, he dashed to embrace them.

Then, many agonizing minutes later, the younger son stepped off the second ship. “I’m very happy now to see my family,” Sy said.

Strong winds and waves had rocked the ferry, but maritime officials said Saturday that the vessel should have been able to withstand much worse weather.