PCG flags registration, clearance violations of 2 capsized boats

LUCENA CITY—The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is telling boat owners and operators to comply with maritime safety regulations and secure the necessary permits and registration papers before sailing.

The action comes following the capsizing of two unregistered vessels in the waters off northern Quezon on Nov. 3 and 4.

“The PCG once again reminded all vessel owners and boat captains to strictly observe maritime safety guidelines,” PCG Northern Quezon Station said Thursday, Nov. 5

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The Coast Guard also told the owners and captains to “ensure that all required legal documents are complete before sailing to prevent accidents and other dangers at sea.”

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In its first report, the PCG based in Real town said two fishermen – father and son – were rescued by fellow fishermen early morning on Nov. 3.

Their fishing boat capsized in the waters off the island municipality of Panukulan.

The fishermen had left Panukulan the previous day to fish in local waters.

At around 4 a.m. on Nov. 3, while returning to shore, their boat was battered by huge waves, causing its right outrigger to break.

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The vessel lost its balance and eventually capsized.

In another instance, a passing fishing vessel spotted a boat and rescued the two persons on board at around 5 a.m.

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Upon verification, PCG discovered that the boat of the two individuals, FBCA Angela, was not registered with the Municipal Agriculture Office or under the Safety, Security and Environmental Numbering (SSEN) System.

The PCG advised the boat owner to immediately register the seacraft.

It also told the person to make sure that the boat’s engine and outriggers were in good condition before sailing.

In a separate report, the PCG said the cargo boat MB AC capsized in the waters off Balesin Island in Polillo, Quezon, on Nov. 4.

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It had departed from the municipality of Jomalig to Atimonan town without securing the required Coast Guard clearance.

“The captain and boat owner admitted that they knew a clearance was required, but proceeded to sea despite the vessel lacking the necessary documents and license from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA),” PCG said.

The vessel’s seven crew members were safely rescued after spending about 10 hours at sea.

The PCG subsequently served the notices against the boat owner for violating Coast Guard regulations, particularly for departing the port without clearance, and failing to submit a Master’s Declaration of Safe Departure.

MB AC is being impounded in Jomalig while its registration with MARINA Region IV and payment of the corresponding fines are being processed. /apl