RDC Reield Marine Services, the owner of the sunken MT Princess Empress, stands firm that the oil tanker was newly built and that it went through proper procedures under Marina’s requirements.
The statement of the marine company comes two days after the filing of new lawsuits by the NBI-Environmental Crimes Division against the officials of Philippine Coast Guard, Maritime Industry Authority and the owners and higher-ups of RDC Reield Marine Services.
The company “firmly maintains its position that the MT Princess Empress was a newly built vessel,” the statement said.
“We were diligent in adhering to the standard requirements set forth by the Marina during the registration process,” it added.
The owner of the ill-fated tanker added that the ship was constructed well, and all the documents and requirements needed by Marina were submitted. The company also extended its thanks to LGUs and other government agencies that helped contain the oil spill that affected Oriental Mindoro and nearby provinces.
The NBI said on Monday that the owner of the ship had been receiving “benefits” from Marina despite its submission of falsified documents.
As of writing, the PCG and Marina have not issued statements on the complaints filed by the NBI against their personnel.