THE Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) recently formed a task force that will conduct random checks on all vessels plying the domestic trade.
Task Force Gabay at Tagapagligtas sa Karagatan is empowered to recommend suspension of ships found in violation of safety standards. Suspension may range from 15 to 30 days depending on vessel deficiencies.
The task force will focus on hotspots such as Manila, Cebu Batangas and Zamboanga and will concentrate on inspecting roll on-roll off ships and cargo vessels.
Members are from the DOTC, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine Ports Authority, Maritime Industry Authority and the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy.
In another development, Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chairman Senator Richard Gordon said his committee report will be submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman to determine if charges should be filed against the PCG, Marina and the Insurance Commission and their key officials relative to two fatal maritime accidents that occurred during the recent holiday break.
Gordon said possible charges range from malfeasance to reckless imprudence resulting in homicide.
