Nenaco passengers stranded

Thousands of passengers of Negros Navigation Co. have been stranded in Manila and provincial ports for two days now following the refusal of the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) to issue clearances for Nenaco vessels to sail to their destinations.

The passengers’ woes started Friday night when Nenaco’s St. Peter the Apostle was not allowed to leave Pier 2 at Manila’s North Harbor without Marina’s clearance.

Another Nenaco ship, the Princess of Negros, was also not allowed to sail yesterday afternoon for the same reason.

Nenaco officials made a last-ditch attempt to transfer their stranded passengers to the vessels of WG&A and Sulpicio Lines.

"We have complied with all the requirements of Marina for the issuance of the necessary permit to sail. Yet, they continue to refuse to issue the permit. What is our violation?" asked Gian Galvez, Nenaco corporate communications head.

Galvez said Nenaco vessels also failed to leave the ports of Tagbilaran City in Bohol and Palawan due to the absence of Marina clearances.

Nenaco had to cancel yesterday the scheduled trip of its vessel St. Joseph the Worker.

"We hope that Marina officials would realize the damage they have (inflicted on) the public as well on commerce. We are still optimistic that these problems will soon be resolved," Galvez said.

Galvez said Nenaco officials have been trying to get in touch with Marina officials but to no avail.

The STAR tried to get the side of Marina officials but was told that they are on their weekend leave.