Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 18) — The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has revoked the Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) of the shipping company that owns and operates MT Princess Empress, the sunken tanker behind the massive oil spill in Oriental Mindoro.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday announced this decision against shipowner RDC Reield Marine Services, Inc., saying the revocation was contained in a May 11 resolution.
MARINA defines the CPC as an authorization it issues to a domestic water transport service provider to operate a vessel for commercial or public use, for which no franchise is required by law.
According to the DOTr, MARINA-National Capital Region revoked the CPC based on the findings that the company operated MT Princess Empress without authority.
The department also said it is looking into the possible liability of personnel from relevant maritime agencies in relation to the sinking of the tanker
“We have had sinkings before but no one has been held to account,” Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said. “This time all parties, whether private or public, will be held accountable. There will be no exception.”
Questions have been raised regarding the seaworthiness of MT Princess Empress. It was able to sail for at least 17 times — despite not being authorized to operate — before it sank on February 28.
In a House hearing on May 9, the Philippine Coast Guard clarified that the vessel was carrying over 900,000 liters of industrial oil when it sank, contrary to earlier reports that it was transporting some 800,000 liters of oil.
CNN Philippines has contacted RDC for comment.
