PCG not preventing ships from carrying oil

CEBU, Philippines - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Cebu clarified that they are not preventing ship vessels from carrying and transporting oil on board.

Commodore William Melad, PCG Central Visayas Commander, explained that they have stopped issuing special permits for transportation of dangerous materials, like fuel, on board vessels following the memorandum circular of the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina).

As reported in The Freeman last Saturday, 4th district Representative Benhur Salimbangon sought the assistance of Governor Hilario Davide III to intervene on the concern of Bantayan Island which may lose electricity supply for a few days.

This after the diesel supply for Bantayan Island Power Corporation (Bipcor) was reportedly not allowed by PCG Cebu to be loaded onto roll-on/roll-off vessels from the mainland to the island.

Salimbangon said that the oil tanker, which is the only one allowed to carry fuel to the island, is not available.

But Melad said that while they have stopped issuing permits following the Marina order, he said this does not mean that they do not allow the transportation of the materials as cargo packages.

“Hindi sila pinagbabawalan,” said Melad, stressing that as long as the packages are stored well, it is allowed. This is assessed by the PCG.

Melad explained that the recent change is even advantageous to the vessels since it would be a step lesser for them and they need not pay for any permit from the PCG.

He said that the PCG are just issuing the permits in behalf of Marina and the payment they get for the special permits are forwarded to Marina.

Melad has spoken with their detachment commander in Bantayan and this was reportedly explained well to the vessel operators. He said he has also coordinated with the Mayor of Daanbantayan about the concern.

Melad said he also wrote to shipping companies about the changes in issuing permits.  (FREEMAN)