After ship runs aground, Super shuttle certificate suspended

CEBU, Philippines - The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has suspended the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate (PSSC) of M/V Super Shuttle Ferry-10, the vessel that ran aground while pulling out of the Pulambato Port in Bogo City last Tuesday afternoon.

MARINA also suspended the Seafearer’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB) and Qualification Document Certification (QDC) of the officers and crew performing watch keeping duties at the time of the incident.

Likewise, 25 liner and tramp vessels owned by Asian Marine Transport Corporation (AMTM) will be subjected to additional International Safety Management (ISM) audit.

Under Memorandum Circular No. 143, the ISM code provides an international standard for the safe management and operation of ships and for pollution prevention.

In an order dated August 20, 2013, Marina-VII Regional Director Nannette Villamor –Dinopol said the audit will be undertaken at the vessel’s next ports or while underway to their next destinations to prevent disruptions of their operations.

Dinopol said the purpose of the audit is to ensure that the company’s ISM is still functioning effectively.

Earlier, Philippine Coast Guard Central Visayas Cammodore William Melad said the M/V Super Shuttle Ferry-10 was about to leave Bogo City at 3:30 p.m. for Palompon, Leyte when it ran aground.

Dinopol reminded the company that if found to be non-compliant with the ISM and other safety rules and regulations of MARINA, its liner and tramp vessels will be suspended or may be ordered to stop operating.

MARINA has ordered the shipping firm to explain in writing – within 72 hours – upon receipt of the order why its Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) should not be suspended or revoked for its alleged failure to comply with operational and safety standards for vessels.

MARINA will hear the case at 2 p.m. on September 11 at its regional office.  — (FREEMAN)