Marina suspends acquisition of new LCT vessels

Marina suspends acquisition of new LCT vessels
Genivi Verdejo February 27, 2025 https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/02/27/business/maritime/marina-suspends...

The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) has issued a suspension on shipowners' acquisition of new landing craft tank (LCT)-type roll-on/roll-off vessels for domestic trade.

Marina issued Advisory 2025-01, titled "Suspension of Acquisition of LCT-Type RoRo Cargo Ships and Operational Guidelines for Existing LCT-Type RoRo Cargo Ships Operating in Domestic Trade." The suspension will remain in effect until a full safety and compliance review is completed.

Citing Presidential Decree No. 474 and Republic Act No. 9295, Marina aims to ensure that new LCT vessels meet national and international safety standards.

Existing LCT vessels may continue operations if they comply with strict safety protocols, including enhanced crew training and mandatory safety drills outlined in Marina Circulars 2015-10 and 2016-01. Vessels must also be classified and maintained by a Marina-accredited classification society.

Industry groups—including the Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association (PCSA), Philippine Interisland Shipping Association (PISA), and Philippine Liner Shipping Association (PLSA)—have raised concerns that LCT vessels often transport passengers without proper safety measures, creating an uneven playing field.

To address these concerns, Marina has mandated training in Crowd and Crisis Management, Ship Security Awareness, and Seafarer Designated Security Duties (SDSD).

Marina Administrator Sonia G. Malaunan has tasked the Philippine Coast Guard with enforcing these measures as stakeholders await further clarification on the advisory.