PCG: A 17-gross ton vessel was apprehended by the Philippine Coast Guard in Sta. Fe, Romblon for overloading of passengers and several other violations prior to leaving Caticlan last Saturday, April 16. 

M/Bca Ven-VI's passenger capacity was only for 66 persons. It left Caticlan with 83 onboard. 

The vessel also reportedly left the port of Caticlan without obtaining PCG clearance and submitting a Master's Declaration of Safety Departure (MDSD). 

The personnel of Coast Guard Station (CGS) Caticlan immediately coordinated with CGS Romblon for the apprehension of M/Bca Ven-VI upon its arrival in Romblon. 

At 4:13 PM of the same day, M/Bca Ven-VI was intercepted by the personnel of Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Sta. Fe and confirmed in its inspection that the boat was overloaded with 23 passengers and sailed without PCG clearance and MDSD.

The skipper was advised to report to CGS Romblon within 10 days upon receipt of the Enforcement Inspection Apprehension Report (EIAR) for adjudication.

M/Bca Ven-VI is owned and operated by a certain Venus Visca.