The Philippine Coast Guard is filing charges against the operators of the motorized bancas that capsized in Sagay City and San Carlos City on Sunday for the illegal ferrying of passengers, Commander Joe Luviz Mercurio, PCG Northern Negros head, said on Monday, March 21.
He said based on their initial information there were several boats that managed to transport passengers from the mainland going to Molocaboc Island in Sagay City illegally and charges will be filed against them.
The vessels had no authority to transport passengers and violated the Anti- Colorum Act, he said.
“There were 56 individuals who managed to cross from the mainland going to Molocaboc” on Sunday and two of five boats capsized, he said.
Some of the passengers were rescued by those on the three boats and 14 more were rescued by the Coast Guard, he said.
“Fortunately there were no casualties or serious injuries,” he said.
The Coast Guard is also looking into violations by the operator of the motorized banca carrying 12 passengers that capsized while on its way to the San Carlos City mainland from Sipaway Island on Sunday, Mercurio said.
All of the passengers were rescued, he said.
Mercurio reminded the public, especially while on holiday during Holy Week, to make sure the vessels they ride on are authorized to carry passengers.
Unauthorized vessels have not been checked for their safety and have no safety devises, he said.*