PCG, Marina share responsibility for safety of vessels

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) are responsible "in varying degrees" for the safety of sea vessels, the PCG said yesterday.

Speaking at the weekly Fernandina Media Forum at Club Filipino in San Juan yesterday, Coast Guard public information chief Lt. Commander Joseph Coyme said that under the law, Marina is the lead agency in Maritime Safety and Vessel Safety domestically while the PCG assists it in enforcing maritime laws.

"To a certain degree we share responsibility, but in varying degrees," he said.

"Being the lead agency, registration, construction, inspection, and enforcement are the responsibility of the Marina. We are now obligated to transfer all documents to the Marina.

"In 2005, in order to have a smooth transition since the PCG has been performing this function on maritime safety since 1967, we drafted a Memorandum of Agreement. The PCG basically has the responsibility to assist the Marina especially in the enforcement of these regulations."

Coyme said Transportation Secretary Leandro Mendoza has ordered the Marina administrator to review the agreement with the PCG to clearly delineate the functions of the two agencies.

"All the regulations and policies on maritime or vessel safety emanate from Marina," he said.