Shipowners under the Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association, Inc. (PCSA) raised concerns over strict crew licensing requirements and the imposition of heavy penalties in maritime accidents during the first-ever Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Board Meeting held in Cebu.
The MARINA Board Meeting was conducted alongside the PCSA General Membership Meeting on January 27 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, marking a historic occasion for the domestic shipping industry in the Visayas.
PCSA Chairman Lucio Lim Jr., who is also the owner of Lite Ferries Corporation, described the meeting as significant, noting that it was the first time the MARINA board convened outside Metro Manila.
Following the board meeting, PCSA members engaged in a dialogue with maritime officials to air long-standing issues affecting the shipping industry. Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro attended the event as guest of honor, which carried the theme “Anchored on Better Government & Stakeholders’ Collaboration Towards a Stronger Domestic Shipping.”
During the open forum, Atty. Villamor Ventura Plan, Assistant Secretary for Maritime of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), addressed the concerns raised by shipowners.
A representative from Trans-Asia Shipping Lines questioned the basis for the substantial penalties imposed on shipping companies involved in maritime accidents.
In an interview, Lim said the penalties are unfair, particularly when accidents are largely caused by human error.
“About 90 percent of maritime accidents are due to human error, yet shipowners are penalized with hefty fines and the suspension of their entire fleet,” Lim said.
Lim also reiterated the industry’s concern over crew licensing requirements, particularly the policy mandating that crew members must be graduates of maritime courses even for domestic shipping routes.
He said experienced crew members who were unable to complete maritime studies should be allowed to work, citing a growing shortage of qualified personnel in the domestic shipping sector.
PCSA officials expressed hope that continued dialogue with MARINA and the DOTr would lead to more balanced policies that ensure maritime safety while supporting the sustainability of the local shipping industry.
The Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association, Inc. (PCSA) General Membership Meeting is sponsored by Dynamic Power Maritime & Industrial Hardware Inc., Dynamic Castings Inc., and Dynacast Shipbuilding & Repairs Inc.
