Rama pushes for VTMS installation

CEBU, Philippines - Mayor Michael Rama wants a Vessel Traffic Monitoring System (VTMS) established in Cebu City that will help prevent or minimize accidents involving sea vessels.

The function of the VTMS is similar to air traffic control for aircraft that will use sophisticated gadgets like radar, closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras, communication equipment and automatic identification system to keep track of vessel movements and provide navigational safety.

Rama challenged the officials of the Cebu Port Authority (CPA) and various shipping companies to work with the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) for the installation of the vessel traffic monitoring system.

Angelito Salvio, assistant vice president of 2GO Shipping, said some major ports of the country have VTMS that would help navigators docking and departing the port safely.

Aside from the installation of the vessel traffic monitoring system, it was also discussed in yesterday’s press conference at the City Hall that port and shipping company officials should request concerned government agencies to improve the existing light houses which are very useful for mariners.

The need to install a VTMS was seen after the collision of passenger vessel MV St. Thomas Aquinas of 2GO Shipping and cargo vessel MV Sulpicio Express Siete off Lawis Ledge in Talisay City last Friday evening. — (FREEMAN)