By Connie Calipay
LEGAZPI CITY – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) 5 (Bicol Region) reported on Monday the apprehension of a truck and its cargo over the weekend at Tabaco Port in Tabaco City, Albay, for allegedly engaging in the illegal trade and transport of 5,400 liters of petroleum products without the required permit.
In a Monday phone interview, Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Tabaco commander Lt. j.g. Earl Cacho said the petroleum products are worth over PHP500,000 based on the estimated market value.
“We are still waiting for the certification from the Department of Energy as to the total value of the confiscated petroleum products and the truck. Further investigation is ongoing to determine the market value using proper valuation standards, identify potential violations, and establish full accountability,” he said.
Cacho said the operation was conducted on April 11 during random K9 paneling and a routine inspection of outbound cargo, during which PCG personnel intercepted and detained the truck scheduled to transport cargo from Tabaco City to San Andres, Catanduanes, after finding it was carrying petroleum products.
“It is part of our standards to inspect every vessel before it travels. We are also checking their documents to ensure the legality of all cargo,” he said.
Based on the initial investigation, the cargo was declared as cement, sacks of rice and solar panels. However, upon inspection, it was found that the truck was carrying petroleum products.
The CGSS Tabaco immediately coordinated with the Maritime Safety Law Enforcement Group Bicol for proper documentation, investigation and legal disposition.
The driver, helper, truck and cargo were brought to CGSS Tabaco for documentation and safekeeping while awaiting the investigation’s results. (PNA)
