Senators will demand accountability from the officials responsible for the sinking of the passenger ferry M/B Princess Aya at Laguna Lake near Binangonan, Rizal last week, which claimed the lives of 27 persons.
Sen. Robin Padilla underscored the promise after sending help to families of the fatalities in the tragedy in Binangonan last July 27.
The Philippine Coast Guard expected the result of an investigation into the capsizing incident Monday this week, but so far the Philippine National Police has yet to release its findings.
“Let’s wait for the result of the investigation team. As of now, our Station Commander in the area has been relieved,” PCG spokesperson Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said during the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City.
The relief will give way to a “fair, honest, and transparent investigation,” PCG Commandant, Admiral Artemio Abu said on Thursday.
Padilla said it is unacceptable that there are many cases of maritime tragedies. He vowed the Senate probe into the Binangonan tragedy would patch the loopholes in the law, as well as focus on addressing overloading, vessels’ seaworthiness, and training of personnel in the maritime industry, as well as their preparedness to respond to emergencies.
Members of Padilla’s office, with actress Nadia Montenegro, visitedbarangays in Binangonan and Jala-Jala in Rizal to bring aid to the families of the victims.
Padilla stressed the need for a speedy investigation of the tragedy as well as efforts to make sure officials and personnel of agencies tasked with ensuring maritime safety, including the PCG and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), fulfill their duty.
He likewise sought the speedy release of the results of the probe by the MARINA’s Marine Safety Investigation, as well as the early resolution of cases lodged against the owner, operator, and captain of the vessel.
“I emphasize that like the victims, many Filipinos travel by sea daily to return to their homes in island barangays. Our responsibility is to make sure their trips are safe and free from threats,” he said.
