Manila, Sept. 11 -- Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., on Friday directed the PNP Maritime Group (MG) to intensify its search and rescue efforts for individuals who remain unaccounted for after a fire broke out aboard a passenger ferry in Palawan.

Nartatez directed PNP-MG personnel to assist the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and concerned local government units in the continuing search for those still missing.

"We are saddened by this incident, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the family of those who lost their lives," Nartatez said in a statement.

"Time is crucial and essential for this kind of unfortunate incident, and we continue to assist and deploy as many of our available personnel...