MARINA reminded all shipowners and operators to monitor official weather announcements and comply with the Notice to Mariners issued daily by the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority and Philippine Coast Guard to all vessels relating to sea state and gale warnings.
MARINA said ships should not sail if the port of destination or areas of operations are affected by even the lowest signal of weather disturbance, and they should ensure they seek shelter without delay.
Shipowners and operators should also follow the warning and advice of government forces stationed at
the ports on the movement of vessels during heavy weather.
Officers and crew should also be alert at all times and prepared to deal with changing conditions on short
notice, as areas which may have been considered sheltered may quickly become exposed.
Measures on proper functioning of communication equipment “should always be monitored and complied
with to maintain safety of life at sea and to avoid disaster onboard and at sea,” the authority added.
Lastly, MARINA enjoins the public to cooperate with the safety measures to achieve zero maritime
casualty.