Plan needed to dispose ferry toxins

Brussels: UN and EU experts have confirmed that five pesticides and other toxins were aboard a ferry that capsized in the Philippines in June killing hundreds of people and urged steps to prevent an environmental disaster.

In a statement yesterday, the European Commission said a comprehensive plan was needed to dispose of the chemicals in the wreck of the Princess of the Stars before any salvage operation was attempted.

The experts' report said the ferry was carrying a "substantial" amount of toxic pesticides as well as 100,000 litres of fuel for its engines when it capsized on June 21.