New crew change hub opens in Port of Cagayan de Oro

New crew change hub opens in CDO port
Raymond Carl Dela Cruz June 1, 2022 https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1175659

NEW CREW CHANGE HUB. The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new crew change hub housing a 'one-stop shop' of government services at the Cagayan de Oro Port on Tuesday (May 31, 2022). The Department of Transportation on Wednesday said the CDO port is the 12th such port meant to help ensure "efficient, safe ship operations," and help address the need for fresh manpower aboard commercial vessels. (Photo courtesy of PPA)
MANILA – A new crew change hub housing a one-stop-shop of government services for seafarers has been activated at the Port of Cagayan de Oro on Tuesday.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said the hub and its one-stop-shop help facilitate crew change requirements and activities in a single location.

“The newly-operationalized hub in Cagayan de Oro along with others is a significant step to ensure the overall well-being, safety, and employment of our seafarers amid challenges towards normalcy despite the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic,” the DOTr said.

More crew change hubs are being eyed to open in the rest of the country through the help of the Philippine Ports Authority, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Cebu Port Authority, the Maritime Industry Authority, and the Office of Transportation Security.

“The government recognizes the importance of crew change in our country which greatly contributes to efficient, safe ship operations, helps address the global need for fresh manpower aboard, and a way towards international recognition,” the DOTr said.

To date, other active crew change hubs include the Port of Manila, Currimao, Poro Point (La Union), Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Bataan, Batangas, Palawan, Iloilo, Cebu, Davao and Port of Zamboanga. (PNA)