3 senators demand probe into fishing boat-tanker collision

Three senators have called for an unbiased and comprehensive investigation into a collision between a Philippine fishing boat and a foreign commercial vessel 85 nautical miles northwest off Bajo de Masinloc, which resulted in the deaths of three Filipino fishermen.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri vowed to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure accountability for the responsible vessel, stating they will not rest until those behind it are identified and held accountable.

Senator Risa Hontiveros condemned the incident, noting the foreign vessel left the fishing boat and the Filipino citizens in the water.

Senator Grace Poe urged maritime authorities to increase their presence in the area and strictly monitor local vessels to ensure their safety.

The commercial vessel involved has been identified by the Philippine Coast Guard as the crude tanker Pacific Anna, registered under the flag of the Marshall Islands.

The incident occurred at 4:30 am on Monday, October 2, and the PCG received the report the following day after the surviving crew members arrived in Infanta, Pangasinan.