Marina to boost PH cruise ship sector

Marina to boost PH cruise ship sector
MA. LISBET K. ESMAEL August 30, 2018 https://www.manilatimes.net/marina-to-boost-ph-cruise-ship-sector/435985/

THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) will implement rules on the operation of cruise ships in the Philippines next month as it seeks to bolster the sector through tourism.

“We are encouraging companies to operate cruise ships in the Philippines. By kickstarting the cruise-shipping industry, we aim to advance [the]local maritime industry [by]boosting…Philippine tourism,” Marina Administrator Rey Leonardo Guerrero said in a statement on Wednesday.

While urging firms to participate, it would still carry out policies to guarantee maritime security, the agency said.
Starting September, interested companies would have to meet accreditation requirements.
Marina said it would only accredit cruise ships that were “operational for not more than 20 years.”

“Moreover, cruise ships, whether newly built or previously owned, are required to be classed by the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) to warrant its adherence to technical standards and requirements, ensuring maritime safety and environmental protection,” it added.

The agency is also looking to embrace international firms to further strengthen the industry.

“While all Philippine cruise ships are required to be manned by Filipino seafarers, Marina is open [to]granting special permits to foreign cruise ships to engage in local cruise shipping industry in areas…not serviced by local cruise ships,” Marina said.