Friday, July 04, 2008 Speak out: Investigating Princess of the stars sinking By Jesus Martinez Mabolo, Cebu City
WE are experiencing the sinking of another Sulpicio ship, something that seems to occur on a regular basis beginning with mv Doña Paz.
I sympathize with the thousands, many of them Cebuanos, who died because of these accidents.
I am therefore appealing to maritime investigators to take seriously so-called investigations into the incidents.
Usually, the result of these investigations amount to nothing, with those responsible not punished and, horribly enough, with Sulpicio Lines ending up buying more sea vessels.
Of special mention are Marina and Coast Guard officials and all other agencies involved in the investigation.
They should really listen to their conscience and not swallow the illogical explanations of Sulpicio Lines.
I am appealing also to our congressmen, eight of whom are Cebuanos, to do something about this terrible tragedy,
Please do not insult people with bogus investigations usually undertaken by publicity-hungry politicians.
Previous investigations have not resulted in the punishment of the culprits.
We Cebuanos are fed up with these investigations.
I am specifically praying that the following be implemented:
--Suspension of Sulpicio’s franchise for five years.
--Putting to prison people responsible of the tragedy especially on the mis-declaration of toxic and dangerous cargoes killing our fish and corals and maybe people.
--Dismissal of government officials for gross negligence of duty, specifically those in Marina and Coast Guard.
