ILOILO RIVER OIL SPILL: IBC, Tugboat Captain May Face Liability, Says Coast Guard

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The captain of a tugboat that submerged in the Iloilo River may be held liable for the incident, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Ensign El John Ga, spokesperson of the PCG Iloilo Substation, said they found evidence of negligence on the part of 56-year-old Ronnie Villacarlos, a resident of Barangay Hagdan, Sta. Fe, Cebu.

Ga pointed out that the mooring line of M/T Maristela 2 was not properly secured.

An initial investigation revealed that the tension on the line was too tight, causing the tugboat to tilt during low tide and eventually submerge.

“Because the tension was too tight, it compromised the boat’s balance and stability,” Ga explained.

M/T Maristela 2 is owned by International Builders Corporation, which may also be held liable for the incident.

Although the boat was no longer operational, it had been docked along the Iloilo River at Muelle Loney Street in the City Proper district.

At the time of the incident, the tugboat was carrying 200 liters of diesel fuel.

Ga said the spill created an oil sheen extending up to 250 meters, but it was quickly contained.

The PCG will submit its investigation report to the PCG Legal Department for further review and potential action.

Villacarlos claimed that he was about to have his morning coffee when he noticed the tugboat tilting. He said he immediately disembarked for his safety.