Evidences point to overloading of ill-fated vessel

Capsized ferry (ABS-CBN News via Twitter)

ORMOC CITY, Leyte — MB Kim Nirvana-B, was overloaded, carrying 323 passengers when it capsized in Ormoc Bay on July 2, authorities said, citing preliminary investigation results.

This was determined after it was learned that the boat carried more unaccounted passengers, not to include the 19 crew members including the boat captain and owner.

The actual number of passengers is contrary to the 173 that was declared in the manifest. Moreover, it was also learned that the boat was loaded with 150 bags of cement weighing six tons, contrary to 80 bags that was declared in the cargo manifest.

“There was misrepresentation on the part of the captain,” Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Eastern Visayas District Commander Pedro B. Tinampay said.

Asked why the overloading escaped the attention of inspectors, he replied that only those seated are included in the headcount.

Tinampay also revealed the names of the two PCG personnel who were relieved from their stations. They are Fidel Blanco and Jonas Sabado who are part of the boarding team.

Charges have been filed against the 18 crew members led by its captain Warren Oliverio. The decision to file the heavier charge of multiple murder instead of homicide was based on the affidavits issued by witnesses.

Philippine National Police Regional Director Chief Supt. Asher Dolina said the manner by which the operator handled the vessel was unusual.

Investigation revealed that the operator turned the boat sharply as it left the port. The charge sheet insinuates that the trip was sabotaged with the intention to kill someone especially that boat owner Joge Bung Zarco was onboard.

Farfetched the accusation may be, Dolina said it is up to the prosecutor to appreciate the case.

Tinampay further belied that they allowed MB Kim Nirvana-B to sail on bad weather, saying there was no gale warning and the waves were normal at three to four feet only.

He also disproved allegations that he acted slowly on recommendations to knock a hole on the hull of the overturned boat.

It was recommended on the night of July 2 and the hole was made 9:00 p. m. that night, he said.

The local government unit (LGU) of Ormoc acted as guarantor to the hospital and mortuary bills to allow the survivors and cadavers to be discharged even without making any payment. Councilor Pedro Godiardo Ebcas, chairman of the committee on public safety, informed that the LGU will also make a parallel investigation on the tragedy.