1 month ago
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TRANSPORTATION Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered an investigation and the imposition of sanctions on Monday against a shipping line after it was caught violating anti-overloading regulations on a voyage bound for Romblon, which left numerous passengers stranded at Batangas Port.
In an interview, Dizon said the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) intercepted the vessel after it was found to have sold more tickets than its allowed passenger and cargo capacity. He emphasized that the safety of passengers could not be compromised.
"Obviously, passengers were stranded because the shipping line sold more tickets than what was allowed in terms of both number and weight," Dizon said, commending the PCG for preventing the overloaded sea vessel from sailing.
The Transportation chief did not name the shipping company while the investigation is ongoing but made it clear that the operator will be held accountable.
Dizon also directed the shipping line to compensate all affected passengers for the inconvenience caused.
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"We have no choice but to enforce safety regulations. Passenger inconvenience is unfortunate, but we will not risk lives," he added.
The Department of Transportation reiterated its strict stance against overloading in maritime travel, vowing stronger coordination with the PCG and port authorities to prevent similar incidents.
