Coast Guard warns public on ‘colorum’ passenger boats

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) warned the public on Tuesday against riding “colorum” sea crafts following the sinking of an unauthorized passenger boat in Capiz City.

In a statement, the PCG advised sea travelers to avoid riding unauthorized vessels that “pose risks to safety and lives of people.”

The reminder of the PCG came after an undocumented motorized banca sank after seawater went in and submerged the hull of the boat while negotiating the coastal waters of Roxas City, Capiz on Sunday. The incident endangered the lives of 12 passengers.

Investigation revealed that the boat does not have a permit to travel, thus, it is not authorized to ferry passengers.

It also showed that the boat was hired by Jesus Ziban for a trip to Tuwad Island in Roxas City when waves battered the ship that led to its sinking.

“Appropriate charges will be filed against the owner and captain for operating a colorum motor banca,” the PCG said in a statement.

All rescued crew and passengers were then released by the PCG station in Capiz after medical assistance had been given. /jpv