PCG probes sinking of passenger ship; license suspended

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will investigate the sinking of a passenger boat on Thursday off Binangonan, Rizal that claimed the lives of at least 26 people.

“We have called for investigation already, including on our personnel,” PCG spokesman Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said on Friday as search and rescue operations continue for those who remain missing.

PCG spokesman Armando Balilo. PNA PHOTO

Balilo said they will determine why the boat was allowed to sail even when it was overloaded.

The M/B Princess Aya was designed to carry 40 passengers but the manifest showed only 22 names while 26 people were reported dead.

At least 40 people were rescued following the accident that transpired around 12:30 p.m. off Barangay Kalinawan in Binangonan.

The boat was on its way to Barangay Gulod, Talim Island when the accident happened.

Balilo said strong winds made the passengers panic. They moved toward one side of the boat causing it to capsize.

Meanwhile, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) suspended the Passenger Safety Certificate of the MBca Aya Express, the owner of the ill-fated boat.

In a separate statement, Marina cited concerns about the integrity of the vessel's hull, integral parts, and other affected machinery and appliances of the vessel.

The regulatory agency said it will immediately conduct a marine safety investigation once the search and rescue operation is completed.

“A show cause order has been issued to the ship owner commencing the administrative proceedings pursuant to relevant Marina rules and regulations. However, it is important to note that Marina is currently gathering data and information regarding the cause of the maritime incident,” the agency said in a statement on Friday.

Marina said the suspension of the safety certificate will only be lifted following a thorough inspection of the vessel and a comprehensive evaluation by Marina inspectors.

“The safety and well-being of passengers and crew remain the utmost priority, and any reinstatement of the certificate will be based on favorable recommendations ensuring the vessel's compliance with all safety standards and regulations”, according to the statement.