60 rescued after boat capsizes in central Philippines

MANILA, Nov. 7 (Xinhua) -- Rescuers rescued 60 passengers and crew of a ferry boat that capsized on Thursday after being buffeted by fierce winds and waves off Cebu province in the central Philippines, a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesman said.

Michael John Encina of the PCG in central Visayas region said big waves sank the boat MV Siargao Princess off Sibonga town before 11 a.m. local time in the southeastern part of the province.

He said the boat left Loon town in Bohol at 9:30 a.m., travelling to Cebu City when it encountered big waves that capsized the ship.

He said the rescued passengers and crew were taken to a local hospital.

The PCG released pictures showing their staff helping survivors wearing yellow life jackets.