Committee on Public Services Chairperson Senator Raffy Tulfo discussed the tragic incident involving MV Tricia Kirsten near Pilas Island, Basilan which left 28 people dead.
During the Senate Committee on Public Services hearing, Tulfo questioned the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) on how the tragedy occurred and pointed out the agency’s apparent lack of prompt action.
“Mere suspension is not enough and that accountability must be established.”
The legislator stressed that mere suspension is not enough and that accountability must be established.
Based on reports, Aleson Shipping Lines, the owner of the RO-RO vessel MV Tricia Kirsten, has been involved in 32 maritime incidents since 2019, yet no one has been prosecuted or held liable.
“Ibig sabihin, ang mga barko nito ay considered bilang floating coffins. Bakit pinayagan pang pumalaot? Bakit hindi muna ni-review ang mga barko at siniguro na seaworthy?” the lawmaker asked.
Initial investigations revealed that the loosening of ropes securing the cargo may have caused the vessel to lose balance.
“Such a tragedy must never happen again.”
The senator emphasized that such a tragedy must never happen again. He called on MARINA and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to implement stronger policies to ensure that all sea vessels are seaworthy before being allowed to sail.
Tulfo also recalled conducting random port inspections in the past, where he observed multiple safety deficiencies in maritime transport, including the lack of standard life vests, X-ray machines to prevent smuggling at ports, K9 units, body-worn cameras, and other essential safety measures.
MARINA admitted to personnel shortages, noting that it is currently tasked with monitoring an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 sea vessels nationwide.
Tuldo directed MARINA to submit to the committee a comprehensive report on all shipping lines involved in maritime accidents, including details on whether any individuals have been charged or held accountable.
