Overloading causes sea mishap

CEBU, Philippines — An official of the Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office revealed that the boat that capsized off the waters of Hilotongan Channel at around 1 p.m. last Monday was overloaded.

Andy Berame said that M/BCA Sta. Rosa Princess had a maximum capacity of 35 but it was carrying heavy cargos.

"Daghan man nanagan. Naa sa ilahang kargamento overloaded sila kay sa tanan pump boat nga namyahe, ngano sila raman ang nalunod?" Berame noted.

Berame also called on boat operators not to take the risk of sailing to their destination amid strong winds and thunderstorm even if there is no gale warning issued.

"Kung pwede, palabyon usa. Di lang gyud pugson kay naay dagko nga balod tungod sa (hanging) Habagat ug naa pay unos, so naay chances nga ma-disgrasya ta," Berame explained.

The boat was from Angasil Wharf in Barangay Agus and was bound for Olango Island.  The 32 passengers of the boat were rescued but the cargos were not recovered.

No one was reported hurt during the sea mishap.

Berame said the concerned agencies are now investigating the incident.

"Ang Marina and Coast Guard are now conducting the marine inquiry,"  Berame said. (FREEMAN)