Tugade orders probe of Mercraft 3 tragedy

Coast guard spokesman Armand Balilo shows a file photo of passenger vessel Mercraft 3 as he talks to reporters in Manila, Philippines on Thursday, Dec. 21, 2017. Philippine officials say coast guard officials and fishermen are trying to rescue more than 200 people on an inter-island ferry which is sinking off a northeastern province. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade has ordered an investigation into the sinking of passenger ship MV Mercraft 3.

The ill-fated vessel, which carried about 251 passengers, capsized between the waters of Dinahican Point, Quezon and Polilio Island last Thursday, December 21.

Following search and rescue operations, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported five fatalities and eleven injured. One fatality has yet to be identified, the PCG said.

“We want this latest incident of sea mishap be investigated on as quickly as soon as possible so we can immediately implement safety nets and preventive measures,” Tugade said in a statement on Saturday.

“Ensuring the safety and security of travellers must be our priority,” he said.

The Transportation chief said he has ordered the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the PCG to implement measures to prevent similar incidents.