8 arrested over alleged oil pilferage in Batangas — PCG

Eight individuals were arrested in connection with the suspected illegal transfer of petroleum products off the waters of Barangay Makawayan in Tingloy, Batangas, on Aug. 15, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.

The PCG discovered the alleged illegal activity after responding to a fishing vessel that reportedly encountered engine trouble near the shoreline.

“During inspection, a crew member disclosed that the vessel and its petroleum products were undocumented, prompting further investigation into a suspected unauthorized transfer of fuel at sea,” the PCG said in a statement.

The vessel reportedly carried about 5,000 liters of diesel, with 4,000 liters intended as cargo and the remaining 1,000 liters reserved for its own fuel consumption.

The eight arrested individuals are now under PCG custody pending appropriate inquest proceedings.

The PCG said the suspects may face charges for possible violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, provisions of the National Internal Revenue Code on fuel marking, and Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1865, which prohibits the illegal trading of petroleum products.

The PCG added that its legal and investigation units are conducting further investigations into the incident.— MCG, GMA News