SURIGAO CITY – The MARINA Regional Office XIII (Marina Caraga), led by Regional Director Dr. Ninfa Dominguez-Martinez, convened its 1st Quarter Multi-Sectoral Advisory Board (MSAB) meeting today, 20 February 2025, to discuss key maritime policies and regulations.

During the meeting, various Section Heads presented updates on MARINA Memorandum Circulars, including those related to vessel registration, Annual Report on Finances and Operations (ARFO) compliance, vessel documentation, crew certification, and licensing requirements.

Engr. Limpangog provided an overview of MARINA Advisory 2025-01, which suspends the acquisition of LCT-type cargo ships and outlines operational guidelines for existing LCT-type RORO cargo vessels in domestic trade. He also discussed MARINA Circular No. SR 2021-05, which mandates compliance with the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) Parts I and II.

A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 13, delivered by Atty. Mariel Banosan and Ms. Valentine Morales. They discussed proposed amendments to Department Administrative Order No. 2016-24, in line with Republic Act 11038, concerning fees to be collected by DENR-Siargao Island Protected Landscape and Seascape (SIPLAS) from operators within the protected area of Siargao Island.

Philippine Coast Guard Surigao del Norte Station Commander ENS Ahmad-Ghazie C. Umug and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) representative Captain Primitivo Novo also shared insights on maritime safety, port operations, and regulatory compliance.

Stakeholders actively participated in discussions, providing comments, recommendations, and suggestions. The meeting successfully fostered collaboration among maritime agencies and industry players, ensuring compliance with national and international maritime standards.

View photos here