Bataan maritime mishaps may be interconnected – Remulla

This photo from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) shows the sunken MT Terranova off Limay, Bataan.

MANILA, Philippines — “Significant findings” show that the three recent maritime mishaps in Bataan were interconnected, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said on Friday.

In an ambush interview after meeting with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Cavite Governor Jonvic Remulla said that they would reveal these findings “in due time.”

“We have significant findings today which we will reveal in due time,” he said.

Remulla said the pieces of evidence would be sufficient to file complaints against those responsible for the sunken motor tankers and vessels.

“Yes, definitely. We’re not talking about an accident here. We’re talking about crime. A crime was committed against our people,” he said.

“All three are interconnected, I believe, especially the first two,” he added.

Motor Tanker (MTKR) Terranova sank off Limay, Bataan last July 25.

The PCG said in an advisory, which was also released on Friday, that it was securing a second layer spill boom at ground zero to disperse escaping oil.

It added that private vessels were also working to stabilize oil spill booms and conducting sea surveillance for possible oil sightings

Another tanker, the MTKR Jason Bradley, also capsized due to bad weather in the waters off Bataan last July 27.

PCG said they are still monitoring the area and are on standby to utilize oil dispersants, if necessary.

The MV Mirola 1, which was carrying diesel oil, also ran aground in shallow waters off the coast of Sitio Quiapo, Barangay Biaan, in Mariveles last July 31, causing the ship to tip over.

The PCG said it is likewise on the lookout for possible oil slicks.