MARINA-7 Conducts Random Inspection of Ships Over 35 Years Old

In order to ensure the safety of passengers and prevent sea accidents, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA-7) is conducting random inspection of sea vessels 35 years old and up for its seaworthiness.

MARINA-7 Regional Director Nannette Dinopol said checking the seaworthiness especially those of old vessels is critical to guarantee the lives of passengers at sea.

“We are currently doing a profiling of ships’ safety nationwide,” said Dinopol during a recent press conference that marked the celebration of National Maritime Week September 25 to 30 which carries the theme “Shipping Indispensable to the World.”

Dinopol said there is a process of crafting a policy to phase out ships that are 35 years old and above although this would be a slow and tedious process considering that quite a significant number would be affected.

In Central Visayas alone, “there are 138 roll-on-roll-off passenger ships and 365 ships of all types that are aged 35 years old and above,” said Dinopol.

The MARINA-7 director said talks have started with financial institutions to give package to ship owners that might be hit by such policy in case it is approved.

“But as of now, there is no policy yet,” stressed Dinopol on the move to phase out old ships, although she added that ship owners who want to continue operations could utilize local shipbuilders to reduce capital costs.

However, the Visayan Association of Ferryboat Services and Coastwise Operators (VAFSCO) opposed the move to phase out old ships because quite a number of ship operators would be affected.

Alexander Cohon, president of the VAFSCO said ships safety is not based on age but rather on regular maintenance and competence of people manning the ship.

“One can have a brand new ship but the crew manning it is not well-equipped,” said Cohon.

Cohon said every dry dock maintenance is done and parts are replaced when necessary which makes the ships safe to travel. (rmn/fcr/PIA7)