As part of intensified safety efforts for the Holy Week travel influx, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has conducted compliance inspections on 103 passenger ships nationwide as of this writing.

This proactive initiative, dubbed as the Intensified Compliance Monitoring (ICM), aims to ensure that all vessels operating along the Philippine Nautical Highway are safe, seaworthy, and compliant with maritime regulations—particularly amid the significant rise in sea travel during this period.

Out of the inspected vessels, 10 ships (9.7%) were temporarily suspended due to safety-related deficiencies; six (6) of which have already been cleared after verification of required corrective actions.

“Our priority is the safety of every Filipino passenger,” said MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan. “The results of our inspections show that the majority of our operators are compliant. For the few who fell short, swift action was taken to ensure that no unsafe vessel puts lives at risk. The quick turnaround of corrective measures from most of the suspended vessels is also a positive indication of responsible ship operation and industry cooperation.”

The remaining four (4) vessels will remain suspended until all deficiencies have been corrected and verified by MARINA inspectors.

The ICM initiative not only safeguards lives but also helps passengers avoid disrupted travel plans caused by last-minute vessel cancellations due to safety violations.

To support this effort, seven (7) MARINA inspection teams have been deployed from April 1-12 to key port areas nationwide, focusing on routes with historically high passenger traffic.