The skipper of the barge involved in a molasses spill in Sagay City, Negros Occidental has submitted a marine protest at the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-Northern Negros Occidental two days after the incident.

The spill happened on August 7, 2024, during a shore-to-ship operation, or the loading of molasses from the truck to MT Mary Queen of Charity docked at the Sagay City Feeder Port.

According to the chief of PCG-Northern Negros Occidental, Commander Jansen Benjamin, the ship captain along with the crew stated that the spill happened while the loading of molasses was taking place.

“Technically, we can say that the accident happened during the interface of operations between the lorry [truck] and the vessel. Diyan nakita namin na nagkaroon ng problema,” Commander Benjamin said.

Based on the captain’s statement, the molasses spill was caused by human error. This was also the conclusion of an assessment on an underwater hull inspection that indicated the barge does not bear any holes or gaps, or any dents or marks because of a collision or bump.

Further, PCG said that the investigation continues as results of water samples and other laboratory tests will help suggest of any cases to be filed against the owner of the vessel.

“Depende din sa laboratory results na lalabas sa investigation. Para may technical (basis) with regards to filing of administrative charges,” Benjamin added.

GMA Regional TV One Western Visayas reached a crew member of the barge through phone who said they would rather not comment about the incident.

In the latest PCG monitoring, the color of seawater in the vicinity of the port has returned to normal. 

Molasses is a viscous byproduct in the processing of sugarcane used in baking, candy-making, production of vinegar and citric acid, among many other uses.