Manila: Several Philippine maritime agencies have vowed the strict enforcement of laws, rules, and regulations in domestic shipping to ensure that no domestic vessel can sail without the required certificates and documents. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announced this joint reaffirmation with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Bangsamoro MARINA (BMARINA) during the PCG-MARINA Forum.
According to Philippines News Agency, the PCG emphasized that receipts, proof of filing, or pending applications are not considered equivalent to the required certificates and documents needed to operate or sail. "Only valid and duly issued certificates shall be recognized for compliance," stated the PCG.
Under the agreement, MARINA will implement stronger measures to address non-registration and unregistered vessel operations, known locally as 'colorum', to ensure Philippine ships meet established safety and regulatory standards. Meanwhile, BMARINA will introduce a transitional mechanism to assist ship operators towards full compliance. This initiative includes guided certification processes, coordinated inspections, and strengthened safety measures designed to support operators in meeting regulatory requirements while upholding maritime safety.
The PCG, MARINA, and BMARINA jointly urge the local shipping industry to fully cooperate and comply with all maritime safety standards, emphasizing that maritime safety is a shared responsibility essential to protecting lives at sea, safeguarding the marine environment, and maintaining the integrity of the domestic shipping industry.
This announcement follows the tragic incident on January 26, when the passenger ferry MV Trisha Kerstin 3, operated by Aleson Shipping Lines, sank off Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan after departing from the Port of Zamboanga. On February 24, the PCG completed its underwater search, reporting 65 confirmed fatalities, 293 survivors, and 14 missing. As a consequence of the investigation, several PCG and MARINA personnel were sacked, suspended, and penalized.
