Phil Coast Guard recovers 43 more bodies off Burias Island

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Coast Guard recovered 43 floating bodies, believed to be that of passengers of the capsized MV Princess of the Stars, in the waters off Burias Island in Masbate province, radio dzBB reported Monday. Radio dzBB's Carlo Mateo reported that of the 43 bodies, 34 were male and nine were female. The report said the bodies were in an advanced stage of decomposition. The report said the bodies were found in Ginduganan Point, Burias Island. The report said 250 bodies have been recovered while more than 500 passengers are still missing, according to the data provided by the National Disaster Coordinating Council and Coast Guard. The report also said 56 passengers survived the capsizing of MV Princess of the Stars off the waters of Romblon province due to typhoon Frank last week. Shipping company Sulpicio Lines Inc, owner of the ill-fated ship, said 111 crew, 29 non-crew and 726 passengers were on board MV Princess of the Stars when the incident happened. - GMANews.TV