The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) -National Capital Region (NCR) has revoked the Certificate of Public Convenience of RDC Reield Marine Services, Inc. (RDC), the shipping company that owns and operates the MT Princess Empress, the tanker which caused a massive oil spill in Oriental Mindoro and other areas.

The revocation, which is contained in a Resolution dated May 11, 2023, was based on the finding that the company operated the Princess Empress without authority.

Furthermore, the MARINA-NCR is continuing its investigation on Orient Registry Shipping Incorporated, Navis Engineering and Marine Services and Reyeld Townsite Shipyard Corp.

The companies failed to comply with approved standards and pertinent MARINA circulars, based on initial findings.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is also looking into the possible culpability of personnel from the relevant maritime authorities in relation to the sinking of the "Princess Empress".

Serious questions have been raised about the seaworthiness of the vessel.

And despite not being authorized to operate, the vessel was able to sail for at least 17 times before it sank on February 28, 2023.

“We have had sinkings before but no one has been held to account," stated DOTr Sec. Jaime Bautista. "This time all parties, whether private or public, will be held accountable. There will be no exception."

“Our policy is zero tolerance to shortcuts, official negligence and disregard of rules," he continued.

"The rule of law, good governance and best practices must prevail throughout the department and its agencies."