At least 59 people have died after a ferry capsized in the Philippines.

A coast guard official announced the death toll and said so far 141 survivors had been rescued, euronews reported.

The 36-tonne ferry overturned in choppy waters minutes after leaving the port of Ormoc City, on one of the archipelago’s eastern isands. It was reportedly carrying heavy construction materials and bags of rice, as well as passengers.

Those rescued say the ferry seemed to make a sharp right-turn before being hit by a large wave.

According to a coast guard spokesperson, panicked passengers rushed to the right-hand-side of the vessel, leading it to tilt and capsize.

The Philippines has a poor maritime safety record, with scores reported dead in ferry accidents each year.