The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) apprehended eight individuals after uncovering a suspected unauthorized transfer of petroleum products at sea off the shores of Barangay Makawayan in Tingloy, Batangas.
The incident came to light after Coast Guard personnel responded to reports of a fishing vessel drifting near the shoreline because of engine trouble. During the inspection, one of the crew members reportedly admitted that the vessel and the petroleum products it was carrying were undocumented.
Further inspection found around 5,000 liters of diesel on board. Of this amount, approximately 4,000 liters were reportedly intended as cargo, while the remaining 1,000 liters were for the vessel’s own use.
Authorities are now investigating the source and ownership of the diesel, as well as its intended destination and whether its transport and possible transfer complied with Philippine law.
The PCG Legal Unit and Investigation and Detection Unit are handling the case build-up. Depending on the findings, the individuals could face charges under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, or Republic Act No. 10863; provisions of the National Internal Revenue Code concerning fuel marking; and Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree 1865, which penalizes the illegal trading of petroleum products.
The eight suspects remain in PCG custody pending inquest proceedings and a determination of the appropriate charges.