Son joins criticism of Biazon over 'Reagan' remarks

BY PETER TABINGO

SEN. Rodolfo Biazon yesterday received flak from some congressmen, including his son, Muntinlupa Rep. Ruffy Biazon, for questioning the capability of the USS Ronald Reagan to help in search and retrieval operations for victims of MV Princess of the Stars.

"I think that the assistance of the United States, by sending whatever available resources they have, is worthy of our appreciation. The rescue and recovery of survivors and fatalities is of utmost importance," the younger Biazon said.

The elder Biazon has questioned the nuclear-powered carrier's presence in the country, noting it was not suited for search and rescue efforts.

He also said the US carrier's presence may also violate the constitutional ban on the presence of nuclear weapons.

The younger Biazon said the Ronald Reagan's technologically advanced instruments for searching a wide sea area would be valuable.

Palawan Rep. Antonio Alvarez said the elder Biazon's remarks were inappropriate.

"We need all the help we can get. Any help will do in times like this. (It was) a misplaced sense of patriotism," said Bacolod city Rep. Monico Puentevella.

"Carriers precisely are equipped for rescue and recovery at sea, and if they were not, we'll take what help is offered," said Makati Rep. Teodoro Locsin Jr.

"The other US ships here have helped a lot in pinpointing floating bodies in the vast sea from Sibuyan to Masbate to Burias and as far as Camarines Sur thus fast tracking recovery," said Romblon Rep. Eleandro Madrona.

The US carrier was sent by President George W. Bush to help in the retrieval operations.

Helicopters from the USS Ronald Reagan on Thursday transported supplies and scoured the seas around the ill-fated vessel.

Rescue efforts have been focused off central Sibuyan island. US and Philippine navy divers have been combing the seven-storey vessel, where hundreds of corpses are feared trapped.

"They brought 10 bodies up from the first class cabins yesterday. We don't have any identification yet. Some were wearing life vests, some weren't," said Coast Guard spokesman Lt. Cdr. Armand Balilo.

Sen. Richard Gordon said attaching political meanings to the support of the US would not help in the search and relief operations.

Gordon said he was among those who requested the US government to send help in his capacity as chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross.

He said the Ronald Reagan's fighter planes and helicopters could be used in the rescue, retrieval and relief operations.

He said the fighter planes could even ferry relief goods to typhoon-hit areas or conduct fly-bys at the site of the tragedy.

He also criticized President Arroyo for her premature statements holding Sulpicio Lines accountable for the sea tragedy.

"I condemn any act right now that is pa-gwapo, including the President," Gordon said.

"We should refrain from saying who's at fault at this point because if we do so, then we condemn everybody, even the small fishermen who also went out during the typhoon." - With Dennis Gadil and Reuters