With the aim to enhance and promote maritime safety in the country, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) in collaboration with the French Maritime Expert (FME) facilitated the Self-Assessment Training on the Enhancement of ROPAX and Passenger Fleet Safety Level in Cebu City on 15-16 May 2024.

Concerned ROPAX and passenger ship companies operating in Visayas and Mindanao along with MARINA officials and personnel gathered in the said activity at the Golden Peak Hotel. It aims to empower ship owners and operators with knowledge and skills in conducting effective self-assessment of their daily operations, ensuring compliance with regulations, promoting safety, and enhancing overall operational efficiency.

In her opening remark, MARINA Regional Office VII Director Annabell Lagas emphasized that ROPAX and Passenger ships play a crucial role in transportation infrastructure, which connects people and communities across the archipelago. She said that it is imperative to maintain the highest standards of safety and security.

FME Mr. Emeric Faure provided guidelines on the process of conducting self-assessment related to safety compliance on vessels. He highlighted the key areas regarding effective assessment on the level of safety compliance of vessels, which include (1) construction, stability and loadline; (2) machinery and electrical installation; (3) fire protection construction and fire safety measure; (4) life-saving appliances; (5) navigation and radio communication and (6) ISM implementation in the domestic fleet.

The self-assessment training was attended by 42 ROPAX and passenger ship fleet owners / operators in Visayas and Mindanao area, as well as some representatives of shipyard entities within the Cebu region.

View photos here