Boat operators in Negros Occ to face raps for illegally transporting passengers

Negros Occidental map

BACOLOD CITY — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is filing charges against the operators of the motorized bancas that capsized in Sagay City and San Carlos City on Sunday, March 20.

Commander Joe Luviz Mercurio, PCG Northern Negros head, said the two bancas illegally transported passengers even if they had no authority to transport passengers.

“There were 56 individuals who managed to cross from the mainland going to Molocaboc,” he said.

READ: 53 rescued after 2 bancas capsized off Negros Occidental

The PCG is also looking into violations by the operator of the motorized  banca carrying passengers that capsized while on its way to the San Carlos City mainland from Sipaway Island on Sunday.

Mercurio reminded the public 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 devices, he said.