Marina suspends Trans-Asia 5

CEBU, Philippines - The Maritime Industry Authority-10 yesterday ordered the suspension of the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate of the M/V Trans-Asia 5.

Marina-7 spokesman Jose Cabatingan said that it was their office in Cagayan de Oro that issued the said suspension.

Trans-Asia spokesman Abner Llenos confirmed that they received the suspension and will rectify whatever is wrong with the vessel, as one of the conditions stipulated by Marina before their ship be allowed to travel again.

Cebu-based Trans-Asia Shipping Lines Inc.'s, vessel was forced to go back to Cagayan de Oro after encountering engine trouble while en route to Cebu City last Sunday.

The 4,790 gross-ton vessel was travelling from Cagayan de Oro Sunday night and was supposed to arrive in Cebu City on Monday at 6 a.m. but as she reached the vicinity of Siquijor Province her engine failed, forcing her captain to ask for assistance.

Her sister ship, the M/V Asia Pacific, tried to tow her but the tow line snapped.

"At 10 a.m. today, naabot ang barko sa Cagayan de Oro port. We opted nga adto na lang mo- dunggo instead sa Cebu City kay mas duol man ang sa Cagayan," said Llenos.

Llenos said that all the 677 passengers and 71 crew including interns were all safe.

Llenos added that there were some passengers who opted to have their tickets refunded while some passengers opted to wait for M/V Trans-Asia 9, that will sail from Cagayan de Oro at 8 p.m. today.

"Those who will wait for Trans-Asia 9 will be allowed to stay and sleep at Trans-Asia 5. We will be providing them meals until makasakay sila," Llenos added.—/BRP