Tambobo bay: The Coast Guard in Negros Oriental has discovered that at least 26 yachts in Tambobo Bay, located in Siaton town, are undocumented, with owners currently untraceable, an official revealed Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Marionne Abigail Enopia, the commander of Coast Guard Station Negros Oriental, reported that the discovery was made following an inventory of yachts and similar privately-owned sea vessels conducted in the bay this week. The inventory was undertaken jointly by the Coast Guard and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) at the request of Siaton Mayor Albert Ator to assess the current state and status of the vessels.

Authorities noted that some of the yachts have been docked in the bay for several months without departure and have been left unattended. Six of these yachts have already submerged and require salvage operations. Additionally, an investigation is underway regarding a shipyard in Tambobo Bay that lacks a permit from MARINA.

Lt. Enopia emphasized the mayor's urgent request to locate the owners or caretakers of the undocumented yachts and summon them for a conference. Currently, only 20 yachts have been verified to possess the necessary permits, with their owners or caretakers identified.

The Coast Guard is collaborating with the Bureau of Customs to verify documents related to the yachts, as the agency oversees the entry, importation, and payment of duties and taxes for foreign yachts. Mayor Ator has issued a warning that undocumented yachts could be ordered to leave Tambobo Bay if their owners or caretakers fail to meet the requirements within a specified timeframe.

Lt. Enopia stated that a comprehensive report on the inventory will be submitted to the Siaton mayor by Friday or Monday.