PCG starts review of BMI ‘Princess’ probe report

MANILA, Philippines - Barely a week after wrapping up its probe into the MV Princess of the Stars tragedy, the Board of Marine Inquiry (BMI) on Wednesday submitted its findings and recommendations to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Radio dzBB's Carlo Mateo reported that according to PCG commandant Vice Admiral Wilfredo Tamayo, his group has already started reviewing the report which they received from the Board on Wednesday morning. Tamayo said the Coast Guard will likely incorporate its own recommendations into BMI's report before forwarding it to Transportation Sec. Leandro Mendoza. The official also hinted the BMI's report contains recommendations that may be referred to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) for further review. The BMI started its investigation last June 25, four days after MV Princess of the Stars capsized off Sibuyan Island. The probe focused on three main points: whether the craft was seaworthy when it left port; the qualifications of its crew; and the weather conditions at the time the ship left port. During its investigation, BMI heard the testimonies of ship owner Sulpicio Lines Inc., and of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, Maritime Industry Authority (Marina), and Del Monte Philippines, among others. - GMANews.TV