Marina conducts ship inspection in Batangas ahead of Holy Week

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BATANGAS CITY — Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) Administrator Sonia Malaluan led ship inspections in Batangas to ensure vessels comply with maritime safety regulations ahead of the expected Holy Week passenger surge.

"Safety is non-negotiable. With the anticipated influx of travelers, we are doubling our efforts to verify that vessels adhere to safety protocols and are well-equipped for smooth and secure operations," said Malaluan.

As part of Marina's intensified compliance monitoring efforts, Malaluan inspected the Stella Maris, a Starlite Ferries vessel with a 436-passenger capacity.

Captain Warren Abila of Starlite Ferries Inc. confirmed that the vessel is fully equipped with life jackets, firefighting equipment, and 25 life rafts.

"Stella Maris is a brand-new 2018 model, surveyed and registered by Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK). We comply with Marina regulations and have had no maritime accidents," Abila said.

Malaluan emphasized that while ship inspections are routine, Marina is stepping up efforts ahead of the Holy Week exodus.

"Even with regular annual drydock inspections, vessels experience wear and tear. We must be prepared to address any safety concerns, especially when ships are at full capacity," she said.

Marina inspection teams are focusing on passenger vessels along high-traffic routes, checking life-saving equipment, firefighting systems, engines and overall seaworthiness.

Any deficiencies must be addressed promptly, and major violations could result in voyage suspensions.

Seven Marina teams have been deployed nationwide from April 1 to 12, covering key areas such as Batangas, Lucena, Cebu, Bantayan Island, and Santander.

"We are confident that our intensified inspections will ensure safer sea travel this Holy Week," Malaluan said, reaffirming Marina's commitment to maritime safety.

Accompanying Malaluan during the inspection were Marina Deputy Administrator for Planning Nenita Atienza, chief of staff Engr. Ronaldo Bandalaria, Planning and Policy Service (PPS) Director Luisito delos Santos, Marina Regional Office IV (MRO4) Regional Director Rizal Victoria, Enforcement Service (ES) OIC-director Atty. Benedicto Manlapaz, and other Marina personnel.

Malaluan also met with Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) District Southern Tagalog Commander Commo. Geronimo Tuvilla to strengthen Marina-PCG collaboration in enforcing maritime safety measures.

"This high-level visit further strengthens our ties with Marina's Southern Tagalog counterparts," Tuvilla said, emphasizing the importance of interagency coordination to ensure vessel compliance and passenger protection during peak seasons.