Marina 7 Allows Fastcraft in Pier Mishap to Sail Again

(PNA) — The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) 7 has allowed the M/V St. Sealthiel of SuperCat Fast Ferry Inc., which bumped the Cebu pier last week, the clearance to sail again.

Marina Legal Officer Jose Cabatingan said personnel from the Marina Enforcement Service in Manila arrived on Friday to investigate why M/V St. Sealthiel hit the Pier 1 berthing area in Cebu City last week.

At least 21 persons, including 18 passengers and three crew members, were injured during the incident.

The Marina 7 immediately stopped the vessel from plying its route.

“The team conducted sea trials in Bantolinao point in Mactan Channel and found that the vessel was in good operational condition. The team has recommended the lifting of the suspension of M/V St. Sealthiel. The clearance was given the following day,” Cabatingan said.

But he said the investigation of liability on the injuries of 21 people has yet to be completed.

The Marina Enforcement Service investigated the seaworthiness of the vessel following the incident while the Standard Training and Certificate on Watchkeeping for Seafarers Division is investigating the vessel officers and crew.

Cebu Port Authority General Manager Edmund Tan said there was no damage to the berthing area so Supercat has no liability to the authority.

Philippine Coast Guard Cebu Commander Rodolfo Villajuan advised all shipping lines to require their passengers to remain seated while the vessel is moving.

Villajuan said most of those injured from the M/V St. Sealthiel incident last March 10 were standing, getting ready to disembark from the vessel. (PNA) FPV/EB