DOJ vows to prosecute not only owners, personnel of 3 sunken ships, but also gov't officials who certified vessels' sea worthiness
The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Tuesday, Aug. 6, has vowed to run not only after the owners and personnel of ships that sank off the waters of Bataan, but also after government officials who approved the seaworthiness of the vessels despite "red flags."
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla declared: “Anyone who tramples upon these precious wonders of nature shall be dealt with the full extent of the law.".
The MT Terranova and the MTKR Jason Bradley sank off the waters of Limay on July 25 and in Mariveles on July 27, respectively.
It was also found that MV Mirola also ran aground in Mariveles that resulted in oil spills.
The oil spills also affected the nearby provinces of Cavite and Marinduque where livelihood of fishermen was affected.
"It is very important to note that ‘Upholding the Rule of Law’ is not merely limited to the administration of justice amongst men, but also covers safeguarding and preserving the environment and our natural resources for the use of future generations,” Remulla stressed.