PHL races to plug gaps in maritime sector

PHL races to plug gaps in maritime sector
Lorenz S. Marasigan January 25, 2022 https://businessmirror.com.ph/2022/01/25/phl-races-to-plug-gaps-in-marit...

THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) is confident that it will pass the industry review of the European Maritime Safety Agency (Emsa), as it aims to complete the rectification of the industry’s deficiencies to meet international standards within the week.

In a phone interview, Marina Administrator Robert A. Empedrad said the Emsa has given Marina until March 10 to submit a report on the corrective measures that the industry has implemented to be compliant with international standards on seafaring.

“In March 2020, Emsa said there were 13 major findings, three minor findings, and 48 specific findings. We addressed them by coming up with policies and implementing these policies while giving updates to the European Commission,” he said.

As of today, Empedrad said Marina has reduced the major findings to nine, addressed all three minor ones, and cut specific findings to 23. Out of the nine major findings, he added, only four are pending on Marina’s list.

“We are coming up with our final report within the week. It’s still a work in progress, but the deadline is on March 10,” he said.

Empedrad said agency representatives will be coming to Brussels to “physically present the corrective measures and answer any clarifications in person.”

Sending SOS to the DFA

The Marina chief, however, admitted that his team will also need the support of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

“We need political backup this time,” he said.

Empedrad added Marina is putting prime importance on this issue, as 50,000 seafarers will be put at risk if Marina fails to address the findings of the Emsa.

He also fears that there will be a “domino effect” on other countries if the industry does not emerge victorious from this issue.

Despite this, Empedrad is still bullish that Marina will be able to win this case.

“I am very confident of a positive outcome,” he said. “However, if we get a negative decision, our seafarers who still have their licenses will still be able to work until the expiration of their license. Nonetheless, in the event of a negative outcome, we will appeal.”