Seaworthiness, responsibility

THE oil spill in the Mindoro area is a major disaster that should not have happened if the vessel carrying the oil was seaworthy. Or if the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) were more meticulous about giving out certificates of public convenience and necessity (CPCNS) for ships. Or if the Philippine Coast Guard were more alert.

Seaworthiness boils down to two things: the ability to keep water out of the hull and the stability to resist capsizing. Thus, the hull should have a certain standard of strength so that, as waves slam against it, there will be no cracks, dents, damage. And the water is kept out.