DOJ vows to run after owners, personnel of 3 sunken ships off Bataan

TRAGEDY AFTER THE STORM The Terranova sinking on July 25 happened two days before another fuel tanker sank in the waters off Bataan. —Photo from the Philippine Coast Guard

MANILA, Philippines — Individuals behind the capsizing of sea vessels that resulted in an oil spill off Bataan will be held liable, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said as it committed to investigating the recent incidents and coming after those involved in them.

In a statement on Tuesday, DOJ also vowed to run after the owners and personnel of the sunken MT Terra Nova, and the two other vessels, including the authorities who approved their seaworthiness.

READ: DILG chief warns public vs fake news related to Bataan oil spill

“Ang goal natin ay kung meron mang nagkamali, kung meron mang conspiracy sa pag bigay ng lisensya, kailangan natin malaman yun dahil marami po talagang naapektuhang kababayan natin,” Assistant Secretary Jose Dominic Clavano IV said.

Moreover, the agency would also help local government units assist affected fisherfolk and residents and have already had dialogues between the provincial government of Cavite and owners and insurance agents of the sunken vessels.

“It is very important to note that ‘Upholding the Rule of Law’ is not merely limited to the administration of justice amongst men but also covers safeguarding and preserving the environment and our natural resources for the use of future generations. Anyone who tramples upon these precious wonders of nature shall be dealt with to the full extent of the law,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said.

Based on previous reports, the Motor Tanker Terranova was carrying 1.4 million liters of fuel  “capsized and eventually submerged” in waters off Bataan province.

Earlier, the Philippine Coast Guard said the oil from MT Terranova had already spread about 12 to 14 kilometers across Manila Bay.

But according to the agency’s aerial monitoring last July 29, the oil spill’s extent lessened to about 2 to 4 nautical miles (nm) or 3.7 to 7.4 kilometers, “going southeast.”