Officials of the Japanese-owned M/V Happy Hiro cargo ship that collided with a Cebu-based fishing boat F/B JOT-18 in Palawan last May 28 have 10 days to file their response to the complaint filed by the Philippine Coast Guard-Antique.
The Antique Provincial Prosecutor’s Office served a subpoena to officials of the vessel that is now anchored in the coastal vicinity of Culasi town on Thursday, PCG spokesperson Lt. Martoni S. Saliendra said in an interview.
“We filed a complaint for reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, multiple injuries and damage to property against the four officials of the MV Happy Hiro Cargo Ship on May 31,” he said.
The complaint filed against the ship master or captain, chief mate and two other officials of the vessel stemmed from the incident.
Investigation showed MV Happy Hiro was en route to Australia from China when it collided with FB JOT-18 that was anchored after experiencing engine failure. The fishing boat capsized and sank in the Sulu Sea.
Thirteen of the 20 fishers on board were rescued while seven are still missing.
Meanwhile, the 13 rescued crewmembers were turned over to the owner of the fishing vessel who arrived from Bantayan Island, Cebu on June 1.
Saliendra appealed to fishermen or anyone who may find those who are still missing to immediately notify the Coast Guard.
Source: Philippines News Agency
