DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 25 March) — The vessel allegedly used to transport oil and gas from Brunei would not have reached Davao’s ports, according to evidence gathered by MindaNews. This fact check follows claims of a “friendship” between Brunei and Davao City enabling the Sultanate to send truckloads of oil to Davao. These claims are FALSE. Viral posts over the weekend suggested a delivery of petroleum products from Brunei to Davao City, portraying the Dutertes as benevolent and forward-looking due to their ties with Brunei and Davao Mayor Sebastian Duterte’s leadership. MindaNews confirmed that such a shipment is impossible under maritime law, as vessels are restricted to routes authorized by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA). The ship in question, owned by Starhorse Shipping Lines, is not designed to transport petroleum and operates only domestic routes within the Philippines. Vincent Dominic Reyes, CEO of Starhorse, denied involvement in the alleged oil transport. Geolocation and analysis of the viral video confirmed the port shown is the Dalahican Ferry Terminal in Lucena City, Quezon, not Davao. The Davao City Information Office debunked the claims, and the Facebook post by “Duterte Supporters” has since been deleted, though similar posts remain. (With reports from Razl EJ Teman / MindaNews)
