THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) plans to issue its own vessel safety certification akin to what the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) issues.
Speaking at the Maritime Forum last week on the salient points of Republic Act (RA) 9993 or the Coast Guard Law of 2009, PCG Commandant Vice Admiral Wilfredo Tamayo said PCG wants more involvement in the safety certification of vessels.
“We want to add another level in the safety certification of vessels wherein this will be a requisite for the final certification from the Marina,” he said.
“PCG should not be limited to pre-departure safety inspection of vessels but should be involved in inspections from the time the vessel arrives in the country when it will be drydocked and when alterations are introduced to properly document the history of the vessel and recommend the needed safety measures for the vessel.”
He added, “With the new Coast Guard Law, I think we will be able to do this and we are looking at working with Marina on this.”
PCG officials with some stakeholders will soon meet in Palawan to discuss the initial draft of the PCG Law implementing rules and regulations. The draft will be presented to the industry by end of next month.
PCG is in the meantime stepping up its acquisition of equipment, including seven helicopters worth P5 billion. The procurement has been approved by the National Economic and Development Authority.
RA 9993, signed by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on February 12, 2010, legitimized the presence of the PCG as a bureau under the Department of Transportation and Communications. The law provided the PCG with a higher degree of autonomy with which to manage its personnel, resources and activities. More importantly, it gave PCG the authority and responsibility over maritime safety enforcement.
