Legazpi City – The MARINA Region V (MRO5), headed by Regional Director Atty. Maximo I. Bañares, Jr., successfully hosted the MARINA-PCG Forum, bringing together Philippine Coast Guard – Coast Guard District Bicol (PCG-CGDB) personnel to address key maritime safety updates and compliance measures, on 24 January 2025.

In his opening remarks, RD Bañares stressed the vital collaboration between MARINA and the PCG, emphasizing their shared responsibility in ensuring maritime safety. “At the end of the day, sa ating lahat nakasalalay ang kaligtasan sa dagat,” he stated. PCG-CGDB District Commander, Commo. Ivan E. Roldan, echoed this sentiment in his solidarity message, calling for a greater focus on maritime safety administration while expressing full support for MARINA’s initiatives.

The forum featured comprehensive discussions on critical maritime topics. Engr. Ma. Veronica L. Biglete presented the MARINA Blockchain-Enabled Automated Certification System (MARINA BEST), highlighting its role in enhancing transparency and efficiency. Mr. Junjun B. Folloso emphasized the need for compliance with MARINA Advisory 2024-27, requiring valid documents onboard domestic vessels, and also discussed Advisory No. 2021-73, which prioritizes the loading and unloading of ambulances for timely medical responses. Engr. Keith M. Mirafuentes addressed safety protocols under MC 2008-01, focusing on the safe carriage of hazardous cargo in domestic trade.

The event concluded with an open forum, allowing participants to seek clarifications and share insights on the topics discussed.

The MARINA-PCG Forum reaffirmed MARINA’s commitment to fostering maritime safety and compliance while strengthening its partnership with the PCG to tackle operational challenges and ensure safer maritime operations in the Bicol region.

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