SEA MISHAP. Passengers of a capsized motorboat are rescued off the coast of San Carlos City, Negros Occidental on Sunday (March 20, 2022). It was one of two incidents over the weekend in northern Negros where all the passengers have been rescued. (Photo courtesy of San Carlos City DRRMO) BACOLOD CITY - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in Negros Occidental is investigating two incidents involving motorboats that capsized due to strong waves while transporting passengers in the northern cities of Sagay and San Carlos on Sunday. There were no casualties, and all of the 55 passengers have been rescued, based on reports from the local disaster risk reduction and management offices. Commander Joe Luviz Mercurio, head Coast Guard Station-Northern Negros Occidental, said on Monday those responsible for the transport of these passengers could face charges for violation of certain regulations. Based on initial information, the Coast Guard learned several boats managed to "illegally" transport passengers from the mainland of Sagay City going to Molocaboc Island. "We can file charges against the operators who violated provisions in ferrying passengers via sea route," Mercurio said. He added the operators do not have authorization or document granting them to transport passengers in such a route where there are no regular ports. According to the Sagay Assistance Volunteer Emergency Response, 45 passengers who were members of Negros Brotherhood Riders Club were rescued and given medical attention on Sunday night. "There were no casualties or serious injuries but it's part of the procedure that all of them must undergo medical examination," Mercurio said. In San Carlos City, at least 10 passengers were also rescued after a supposed service motorboat transporting them from Sipaway Island to the mainland capsized. "We are looking at finishing the investigation for appropriate charges, if ever there are violations," Mercurio said.(PNA) }