The death toll from the sinking of three ferry boats off the coast of central Philippine provinces of Iloilo and Guimaras on Saturday has risen to 31, according to a coast guard spokesperson.

Up to 96 people were on board the boats when they sank. Search missions are continuing as three people remain unaccounted for, said the spokesperson.

All the boats were buffeted by strong winds and big waves triggered by monsoon rains that affected the main Luzon island and Western Visayas region.

It was not clear how the boats were allowed to sail in the rough waters when all boat trips were supposed to be cancelled due to bad weather.

Monsoon rains have flooded streets in Manila, Luzon island and central Philippines, prompting authorities to temporarily close government offices and schools.

(with inputs from Xinhua News Agency)