The House Committee on Transportation has recommended the filing of criminal, civil, and administrative charges against officials and private individuals who may be liable for the sinking of M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 on January 26 of this year.
Recommendations for Legal Action
According to the committee, a comprehensive and independent investigation should be conducted to determine the accountability of ship owners, crew members, and government officials. Possible charges include reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, serious physical injuries, and damage to property.
House Committee on Transportation Chairperson Franz Pumaren stated that the National Bureau of Investigation, Department of Justice, and Office of the Ombudsman may file cases based on the investigation results.
MARINA Penalties
Meanwhile, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has imposed a fine of over PHP 3 million and a 60-day suspension on Aleson Shipping Lines for various violations, including overloading and non-compliance with proper passenger manifests.
It is recalled that at least 65 people died and over 20 remain missing after the passenger ship sank in waters off Basilan. Of the hundreds of passengers on board, 293 were rescued.
