6 PCG, Marina officials relieved from posts over Iloilo-Guimaras sea accidents

Six officials of the Philippine Coast Guard and Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) were relieved from their posts following last weekend's series of sea tragedies at the Iloilo Strait that killed 31 people.

The order was given by Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade during his visit to Guimaras on Wednesday night.

"I want them immediately relieved from their posts so we can give way to a more thorough and impartial investigation," Tugade said.

"If they are found negligent, we will make sure that necessary criminal charges will be filed against them."

Covered by the order were four PCG officials including the station commanders in Iloilo and Guimaras, as well as Marina's regional director in the Western Visayas.

Tugade issued the directive to PCG Commandant Admiral Elson Hermogino and MARINA OIC Administrator Narciso Vingson Jr., who are both with him in Guimaras to inspect various port facilities and to personally extend sympathies with the bereaved families of victims of the tragic sea accident.

As a form of assistance, Tugade pledged to help provide qualified family members of victims with employment to the Marina, PCG, and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).

"Tutulong tayo na mabigyan ng trabaho sa PPA, MARINA at Coast Guard ang mga miyembro ng pamilya ng mga biktima," he said.

Tugade ordered Marina to expedite the release of permits of Ro-Ro (roll-on, roll-off) fastcraft vessels that will be used to augment the number of ships plying the Guimaras-Iloilo route, while a suspension on wooden hull bancas are in place. —KBK, GMA News