DTS orders probe into Montenegro Shipping overbooking

Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered an investigation into Montenegro Shipping Lines Inc., which allegedly sold tickets beyond its vessel's capacity, leading to hundreds of passengers being stranded on Sunday, April 13.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that the RoRo vessel departed from Batangas Port with 942 passengers and 29 vehicles despite a maximum passenger capacity of 1,000 individuals, leaving more than 100 passengers behind due to overbooking.

Secretary Dizon emphasized during an interview that overbooking poses safety risks and can lead to passenger inconvenience, stressing that compensation will be provided for affected travelers.

Despite the shipping line's denial of overloading, the PCG said they prioritized stranded passengers on the next scheduled trip at about 5 p.m. on Monday.

Department of Transportation officials are now focusing on ensuring passenger safety and have ordered sanctions against the company under a new joint memorandum circular signed by MARINA, PCG, and PPA to curb overloading practices.

Batangas Port reported heavy activity during Holy Week with up to 20,000 passengers daily expected, and trips to other destinations like Caticlan are also at full capacity.