MIA MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 81

: The main objective is to harmonize the policy of MARINA on vessel acquisitions with the national policy on importations and to inform shipping companies/operators of the requirements for acquiring vessels for domestic trade.
: It applies to all persons, corporations, firms, and entities acquiring vessels of any type for use in domestic trade, except fishing vessels and tankers covered by other circulars.
: Acquisition includes importation, bareboat charter, lease-purchase, lease-irrevocable purchase, and local construction of a vessel intended as a public utility.
: Domestic Trade means the carriage for hire of passengers or cargo between various ports and places within the Philippines.
: Any vessels, regardless of age and size, may be imported or acquired provided they are not wooden-hulled vessels.
: Yes, wooden-hulled vessels are allowed if locally constructed.
: Tugboats, lighters, motor yachts for personal use, and wooden-hulled vessels are exempt from classification requirements.
: All passenger vessels must secure compulsory insurance coverage of P50,000 per passenger.
: Except for tugboats and lighters, vessels must secure a Provisional Authority (PA) or Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) from MARINA before operating in interisland trade.
: Any subsequent sale or transfer of vessels acquired under this circular requires prior approval from MARINA.