NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
MARINA Revokes Certificate Of Public Convenience Of Vessel Involved In Mindoro Oil Spill
National Capital Region (NCR) - The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has taken decisive action by revoking the Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) of RDC Reield Marine Services, Inc. (RDC), the company responsible for the operation of the MT Princess Empress, the tanker involved in a devastating oil spill in Oriental Mindoro and surrounding areas.
The NCR division of MARINA made this announcement in a Resolution dated May 11, 2023, after discovering that RDC had operated the vessel without proper authorization.
In addition to the action taken against RDC, MARINA-NCR is intensifying its investigation into Orient Registry Shipping Incorporated, Navis Engineering and Marine Services, and Reyeld Townsite Shipyard Corp. These entities have come under scrutiny due to initial findings suggesting non-compliance with approved standards and relevant MARINA circulars.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is also actively examining the potential culpability of personnel within the maritime authorities associated with the sinking of the "Princess Empress." The seaworthiness of the vessel has been called into serious question, particularly since it made at least 17 unauthorized voyages prior to its tragic sinking on February 28, 2023.
DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista expressed his determination to hold all parties accountable for their actions, whether private or public. Bautista emphasized the department's commitment to a policy of zero tolerance for shortcuts, official negligence, and rule disregard. He stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law, good governance, and best practices throughout the department and its affiliated agencies.
"This time, all parties, whether private or public, will be held accountable. There will be no exceptions," Secretary Bautista declared. "Our policy is zero tolerance to shortcuts, official negligence, and disregard of rules. The rule of law, good governance, and best practices must prevail throughout the department and its agencies."
The revocation of RDC's CPC sends a clear message about the seriousness with which MARINA and the DOTr are approaching this matter. The investigation into the other maritime entities involved will shed further light on any potential lapses in adherence to safety protocols and regulations.
Efforts are underway to address the environmental impact caused by the oil spill, with ongoing measures to contain and clean up the affected areas. Authorities are also working towards providing assistance and compensation to affected communities and individuals.
The NCR division of MARINA made this announcement in a Resolution dated May 11, 2023, after discovering that RDC had operated the vessel without proper authorization.
In addition to the action taken against RDC, MARINA-NCR is intensifying its investigation into Orient Registry Shipping Incorporated, Navis Engineering and Marine Services, and Reyeld Townsite Shipyard Corp. These entities have come under scrutiny due to initial findings suggesting non-compliance with approved standards and relevant MARINA circulars.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is also actively examining the potential culpability of personnel within the maritime authorities associated with the sinking of the "Princess Empress." The seaworthiness of the vessel has been called into serious question, particularly since it made at least 17 unauthorized voyages prior to its tragic sinking on February 28, 2023.
DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista expressed his determination to hold all parties accountable for their actions, whether private or public. Bautista emphasized the department's commitment to a policy of zero tolerance for shortcuts, official negligence, and rule disregard. He stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law, good governance, and best practices throughout the department and its affiliated agencies.
"This time, all parties, whether private or public, will be held accountable. There will be no exceptions," Secretary Bautista declared. "Our policy is zero tolerance to shortcuts, official negligence, and disregard of rules. The rule of law, good governance, and best practices must prevail throughout the department and its agencies."
The revocation of RDC's CPC sends a clear message about the seriousness with which MARINA and the DOTr are approaching this matter. The investigation into the other maritime entities involved will shed further light on any potential lapses in adherence to safety protocols and regulations.
Efforts are underway to address the environmental impact caused by the oil spill, with ongoing measures to contain and clean up the affected areas. Authorities are also working towards providing assistance and compensation to affected communities and individuals.
May 19, 2023
