Owner of sunken ship in Manila Bay denies smuggling allegations
TRAGEDY AFTER THE STORM MT Terra Nova sank on July 25, two days before another fuel tanker sank also in the waters of Bataan province. —PHOTO FROM PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD
MANILA, Philippines — The owner of the sunken ship leaking oil in Manila Bay has denied allegations that it is involved in smuggling.
In a statement on Tuesday, Motor Tanker Terranova’s owner Porta Vaga Ship Management said it “categorically denies the allegations of smuggling and involvement in ‘pa-ihi’ (oil smuggling) operations.”
“Pa-ihi” refers to the practice of transferring oil from large vessels to smaller craft while at sea in a bid to avoid paying taxes.
Porta Vaga Ship Management issued the statement after Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla told dzRH over the weekend that authorities are investigating if the motor tanker is involved in oil smuggling.
The company said that since the beginning of its operation, MT Terranova has never filed reports of “abnormal” oil loss that could be a telltale sign that the motor tanker is involved in smuggling.
“MT Terranova is equipped with a comprehensive CCTV system as part of the company’s proactive measures to prevent oil loss,” the company said.
“Since the commencement of its operations, there have been no records of oil loss claims or reports of abnormal losses filed against MT Terranova by any of its charterers,” it added.
MT Terranova was carrying 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil when it capsized and sank off Bataan last July 25, killing a crew member.
The oil slick has spread up to the coasts of Manila and nearby provinces.
READ: Cavite gov’t readies suit vs sunken tanker owner
