LAMENTS STATE OF MARITIME INDUSTRY
SEARCH FOR MISSING FERRY PASSENGERS, ASSISTANCE TO VICTIMS SHOULD BE PRIORITY - CHIZ

Opposition Sen. Chiz Escudero yesterday said that government should prioritize the search for missing passengers of the sunken Super Ferry 9 instead of a probe into the cause of the tragic incident.

"There will always be time for an investigation into this latest sea tragedy. Let us focus our attention on the search and rescue operations as well as providing immediate assistance to the victims and their families," he said.

At least 12 passengers were killed while about 30 others remain missing after the ferry sank Sunday morning off Zamboanga del Norte. More than 900 passengers and crew were rescued by responding vessels and coast guard ships.

Escudero also lamented the state of the country's maritime industry, noting that most of ships plying the country's waters are reconditioned, second-hand foreign vessels.

"There are not enough incentives that will spur our businessmen to build passenger and cargo ships intended for use in our waters," he said.

"It is ironic that we have the best seamen who man the most modern ships in the world. But in our own country, our people have to sail on board imported, second-hand vessels which have seen better days," Escudero said.

The 39-year old lawmaker said the next administration should give priority in developing the maritime industry to spur inter-island trade and tourism and create more for the people.