MV Peñafrancia’s safety certificate suspended after listing in Quezon

MANILA, Philippines — The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) has suspended the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate of the vessel MV Virgen de Peñafrancia II.

The suspension comes after the passenger boat capsized onto its right side at the Port of Real in Quezon earlier on Friday that resulted in the injury of three passengers.

Marina’s order followed Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon’s instruction to suspend the boat’s trips and immediately deploy marine casualty investigators.

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The probers will identify possible safety lapses and establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

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READ: 58 passengers rescued from distressed sea vessel off Real, Quezon

In a statement on Friday, Marina noted that pursuant to the Republic Act No. 9295 and applicable maritime regulations, the vessel’s suspension will remain in effect.

This is pending a safety inspection and technical evaluation to establish Peñafrancia’s seaworthiness.

Marina said authorities will examine the overall condition of the ship and check its compliance with applicable maritime safety requirements.

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“The cause of the incident has yet to be conclusively established. Any further administrative action will be based on verified evidence and the results of the technical investigation,” the agency said.

Based on the initial report of Marina’s Regional Office IV, which issued the suspension, the tipping over took place at around 12:25 a.m. this Friday.

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Peñafrancia had reportedly just arrived from Polillo Island and was preparing to dock at the port in Barangay Ungos when it began to tilt on its side amid strong water currents.

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The vessel’s 40 passengers and 18 crew members, including two infants, were safely evacuated, but three were hurt.