EDITORIAL- A long string of accidents

Just days after the official start of the rainy season, a ferry has sunk off Burias Island in Masbate. Unlike similar accidents in the past, however, the M/V Our Lady of Mt. Carmel reportedly sank in good weather along the Burias Passage at 5 a.m. last Friday. As of yesterday, two passengers were confirmed dead and seven remained missing.

Authorities said the Masbate-bound ship owned by Cebu-based Medallion Transport was not overloaded. The Office of Civil Defense said one of the two buses on the roll on-roll off vessel apparently came loose from its chain and nylon mooring, making the ship tilt and eventually capsize. Motorized outriggers and two sister ships of the Mt. Carmel rescued the passengers and crew.

Authorities still have to determine liability for the latest in a long string of deadly maritime accidents in this country. The Mt. Carmel’s passenger manifest appeared to be in order, and most of those rescued wore life vests. The accident, however, again highlights the safety risks in the country’s maritime transportation. Reforms in the industry have been slow despite the numerous deadly accidents that have claimed thousands of lives in the past three decades.

Maritime transportation is a necessity in many parts of this archipelago of 7,100 islands, including top tourist destinations. Where there are choices, many Filipinos pick ships to air travel because of the lower cost, despite the long travel time. Improving compliance with safety standards in the maritime industry should be a priority for the government.

Maritime accidents occur across the country, throughout the year, and even in good weather as the latest disaster shows. Aging vessels, unqualified crew, poor ship maintenance and weak regulation of the industry compound the risks posed by the numerous weather disturbances that make sea travel dangerous. Failure to penalize negligence that leads to death, injury and property loss also slows down reform initiatives. The public expects the new team in the transportation department to make a difference.