Pope prays for victims of sunken Philippine ferry

Vatican City: Pope Benedict on Sunday pledged to say a "special prayer to God" after a typhoon caused a ferry with more than 700 passengers to sink in the Philippines.

The pope told pilgrims in St. Peter's Square that he feels particularly sorry that many children are feared to be among the victims.

"It is with deep emotion that I learn this morning of the sinking in the Philippines of a ferry hit by Typhoon Fengshen," the pope said.

The Princess of the Stars sank in just 15 terrifying minutes on Saturday, leaving only four survivors. Rescuers were still trying to find if there are more survivors.