THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) apprehended eight individuals after an undocumented fishing vessel was found allegedly involved in the unauthorized transfer of petroleum products off Barangay Makawayan, Tingloy, Batangas on August 15, 2026.
The PCG responded after the vessel was reported drifting near the shoreline due to engine trouble. During inspection, one crew member reportedly admitted that the vessel and its petroleum products were undocumented.
Authorities found around 5,000 liters of diesel onboard. About 4,000 liters were reportedly intended as cargo, while the remaining 1,000 liters were for the vessel’s own use.
The PCG Legal Unit and Investigation and Detection Unit are now conducting a probe to determine the source, ownership and intended destination of the fuel, as well as whether its transport and transfer were legal.
The eight suspects could face charges for possible violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (RA 10863), fuel-marking provisions of the National Internal Revenue Code, and Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree 1865, which penalizes illegal trading of petroleum products.
The suspects remain in PCG custody pending inquest proceedings and the filing of appropriate charges.
The PCG said the operation forms part of its iCARE Program, aimed at strengthening maritime law enforcement and preventing the unauthorized transport, transfer and sale of petroleum products in Philippine waters.
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