Shipping owners set for nationwide strike

CEBU, Philippines - The Visayan Association of Ferryboat and Coastwise Service Operators is supporting the planned nationwide strike by all shipping owners in protest of the several memorandum circulars issued by the Maritime Industry Authority.

Chester Cokaliong, VAFSCO former president and current board member, said that in their meeting last night, they agreed to hold a press conference on February 18 in Manila to formally announce their nationwide strike.

Cokaliong, chief executive officer of Cokaliong Shipping Lines, said during the strike, which is set for March 1, 2010, all shipping owners will not allow all their vessels to sail.

Joy Roble, president and chief executive officer of Roble Shipping said the “maritime holiday” will serve as a strong signal against some unreasonable policies by MARINA administrator Elena Bautista.

Roble said that among the policies they oppose is the mandatory requirement for them to secure an exorbitant insurance policy and the requirement for US-made life vests in all vessels.

“Daghan pa mga policies si Bautista nga wala namo nauyunan. Ipagawas lang na namo inug presscon na,” Roble said. — Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/BRP    (FREEMAN NEWS)