On Sulpicio Lines – Human Error Verdict

I am Learning in Law school that one should try to express his or her thoughts in a more concise manner – direct to the point with brief argumentation.

A cursory review of the events in the past…going back to the 1990’s would show that Sulpicio Lines’ disaster record is impecable. If such is the case, many would now wonder, then why do they continue to operate today? It would be immature to blame it to the government. True, that government regulation and control could correct the Sulpicio problem but we have to consider the fact that having them suspended from operating could cause a ‘bug’ in the transportation industry. The country does not have a lot of ship operators and since Sulpicio is also a RO-RO, it aids in the delivery of services and exchange of goods. This could be a reason why they still operate today.

Every business venture is profit-oriented. However, companies must be able to balance their intent to gain profit and the welfare of their customers. In the case of Sulpicio Lines, findings of the Maritime Board would clearly say that the vessel exceeded its carrying capacity which also contributed to the incident. Also, the Coast guard is duty-bound to accertain the safety of the passengers aboard and implement the government regulation on vessels’ carrying capacity. No amount of profit can ever supersede the life of any individual.

Given the circumstances presented above, how are we going to proceed? Clearly, government is at fault on two points; 1) It failed to implement the clear regulations of Maritime activities and sea vessels, and 2) It does not have the political will to prosecute Sulpicio in lieu of public safety. Our country is rich in legislations particularly on Maritime affairs. A habit can be deduced from this incident. Legislators make laws with a purpose but does not provide for the required instruments to attain such purpose. Our coast guard does not have their own ships to effectively protect the integrity of our coasts and open seas. Corruption clouds the judgments of officials who should implement the law.

Past victims should fight Sulpicio to the end. They should file for civil damages and run after Sulpicio’s earnings. I am hoping that our courts would find negligence and imprudence in this incident on the part of Sulpicio’s management. The law should put a stop on this and never allow any Sulpicio liner to set sail again. We are the top ship-maker in the world and we must not be deterred by the fact that removing Sulpicio might cause a ‘bug’ in our transportation system. Until such time that this company will be responsible enough and meet the government regulations and requirements, they should not be allowed to operate.

Human Error verdict is a clear manifestation that Sulpicio is at fault and that it should be liable for all the consequences of their felonious acts. It is high time that our government should be true to their duty of serving and protecting the people. Lastly, a little vigilance on the part of those who board Sulpicio liners would not hurt. The people should know better. Let us demand for what we know is right and fight the irregularities that we see.