The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) is now conducting public consultations nationwide on the revision of 12 memorandum circulars, a move designed to make them compliant with International Maritime Organization (IMO) recommendations on the safe operation of vessels on domestic routes.
In an advisory on its website, the authority said it is holding hearings on its plan to update a dozen MARINA circulars to harmonize with the IMO’s Guidelines on the Safe Operation of Ships Engaged in Non-International Voyages, otherwise known as the “Manila Statement.”
The Manila Statement, adopted by the IMO Conference in Manila in April this year, acknowledges the urgent need to enhance safety of ships carrying passengers on non-international voyages in certain parts of the world. The declaration urges states to collaborate with stakeholders to review and revise national legislative and administrative requirements and practices relating to the operation of domestic ferries to ensure these provide adequate safety net.
The consultations started on September 9, with the last hearing to be held in Manila on September 15-16.
Memorandum circulars up for revision are the following:
- Rules on the Conduct of Examination, Issuance of Certificate of Marine Profession and Licenses to Seafarers
- Mandatory Passenger Insurance Coverage, Monetary Assistance to Survivors of Maritime Accidents/lncidents and Other Relevant Concerns
- Rules and Regulations to Implement the Code of Safe Practice for Cargo Stowage and Securing in the Domestic Shipping
- Rules and Regulations on the Requirements of Life Saving Appliances under Chapter IX of the Philippine Merchant Marine Rules and Regulations
- Revised Rules and Regulations on Survey, Assignment of Maximum Load Line Marking and Certification of Philippine Registered Motor Boat with and without Outriggers Carrying Passengers
- Revised Rules on the Progressive Gradual Phase-out of Wooden-Hull Ships in the Domestic Trade
- Rules and Regulations for the Construction, Conversion, Alteration and Modification of Philippine-Registered Domestic Ships
- Revised Rules and Regulations to Implement a Safety Management System for Domestic Shipping
- Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations on the Registration of Boat Builders/Repairers
- Rules and Regulations on Subdivision and Damage Stability Requirements for Philippine Registered Domestic Ships
- Shipboard Training Program for Deck and Engine Cadets
Revised Rules on the Issuance/Renewal of Coastwise Licenses, Bay and River Licenses and Motor Yacht License – Roumina Pablo
