Group of shipowners lauds DOTr, MARINA

Group of shipowners lauds DOTr, MARINA
Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon - August 10, 2025 https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-news/2025/08/10/2464556/group-...

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu’s shipping industry leaders commended the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) for the long-awaited approval of the Minimum Safe Manning Standards for Vessels Engaged in Domestic Trade, a milestone nearly two decades in the making.

In a letter addressed to DOTr Secretary Vivencio “Vince” B. Dizon, industry representatives lauded the department’s pivotal role in securing the landmark policy, which sets baseline crew requirements to ensure vessel safety, safeguard marine environments, and uphold the welfare of Filipino seafarers.

“This landmark achievement stands as a testament to your leadership, consultative governance, and unwavering commitment,” wrote Lucio E. Lim Jr., chairman, and Paul Y. Rodriguez, president, in their joint commendation on behalf of the Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association Inc. (PCSA).

The newly approved standards are expected to strengthen operational safety across the country’s domestic fleet by aligning manning requirements with actual operational and technical needs.

The Cebu-based shipping leaders also extended their gratitude to DOTr Assistant Secretary Villamor Ventura S. Plan for addressing manning concerns raised during a general membership meeting held on June 5, 2025. The group also recognized MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan for her “exemplary leadership” in facilitating inclusive consultations with stakeholders.

A special acknowledgment was also given to MARINA Chief of Staff Ronald Bandalaria, whose coordination during the July 3–4, 2025 dialogue in Cebu was described as “exceptional.”

Bandalaria and the technical working group (TWG) were credited for fostering open and solutions-based discussions that led to consensus among industry players.

“Beyond regulatory progress, this achievement establishes clear, factual-based minimum manning requirements. A significant step towards technical soundness and a reflection of genuine collaboration between the government and the maritime industry,” the letter read.

The successful approval of the manning standards not only addresses long-standing industry concerns but also serves as a blueprint for future policy-making in the maritime sector, according to Lim and Rodriguez.

“We look forward to a continued partnership with MARINA in advancing the country’s maritime excellence,” they added.

PCSA is the biggest shipowners and ship operators group in the country today with more than 50 members and operating more than 800 vessels serving thousands of passengers daily and transporting cargoes nationwide. — /JG (FREEMAN)