The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) is reminding ship owners, ship operators, bareboat charterers, ship managers, and other concerned stakeholders to ensure maritime safety at all times, especially now that the rainy season has begun.
Through an advisory, Marina instructed stakeholders to conduct necessary actions to achieve zero maritime accident, including by operating their ships in a manner that is safe for the passengers and that minimizes the negative impact on the marine environment.
State weather bureau Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration on June 14 declared the start of the rainy season, which may last until November or December.
“Marina believes that maritime stakeholders play a major role in ensuring a safe culture in the Philippine maritime industry. Hence, the agency seeks their active cooperation for a safe, comfortable, and convenient sea transportation in the country at all times, especially this rainy season,” the maritime authority said in a statement.
Marina urged stakeholders to comply with ship safety rules and regulations, as well as to implement their safety management systems and preventive maintenance systems.
The agency also reminded them to observe the latest weather forecasts, conduct proper risk assessment of shipboard operations, and apply control measures, as needed.
Moreover, stakeholders are instructed to ensure the stability of seagoing vessels during loading and unloading of passengers and cargoes, taking into consideration the ships’ maximum capacity and loadline.
Finally, they are reminded to have adequate communication and navigational devices, life-saving appliances, firefighting systems, as well as cargo securing/handling equipment that are accessible and ready for usage onboard.
