The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has suspended the Passenger Ship Safety Certificates (PSSCs) of two passenger vessels during the agency’s Intensified Compliance Monitoring operations, which began on 01 April and will run until 12 April 2025.

The suspension stems from findings that revealed deficiencies in safety compliance, prompting immediate action from MARINA to ensure the protection of lives and adherence to maritime safety standards.

Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan emphasized the agency’s commitment to safeguarding the riding public stressing, “We cannot compromise safety. The suspension of these vessels underscores MARINA’s resolve to enforce our rules and regulations. Our intensified compliance monitoring is a firm statement that unsafe practices have no place in our seas.”

Any deficiencies must be addressed promptly, and major violations could result in voyage suspensions. The suspended ships will only be allowed to resume operations once all issues have been rectified and verified by MARINA inspectors.

To ensure thorough and coordinated enforcement, seven MARINA teams have been deployed nationwide from April 1 to 12, covering key areas with heavy passenger traffic along the Philippine Nautical Highway.