Question & AnswerQ&A (DOTC DEPARTMENT ORDER NO. 98-1180)
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) is designated as the policy-making agency on maritime safety.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), which has been transferred to the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), is responsible for implementing and enforcing maritime safety rules.
The PCG is deputized to verify documents such as the Certificate of Vessel Registry, Pleasure Yacht Registration/Permit, Certificate of Number, Coastwise License, Bay and River License, Certificate of Inspection, Special Permits, Seafarer's Identification and Record Book (SIRB), and Motor Boat Operator's License (MBOL), among others.
MARINA deputizes the PCG to issue various certificates and permits including Pleasure Yacht Registration, Certificate of Number, Coastwise License, Certificate of Inspection, Special Permits, Motor Boat Operator’s License, and Dispensation Permits, subject to competency and procedural requirements.
The PCG must observe qualification requirements for personnel responsible for issuance and adhere closely to MARINA’s procedures and forms. Certificates issued by the PCG shall be deemed issued by MARINA and bear both PCG and MARINA official logos.
The PCG verifies compliance with MARINA-prescribed routes and schedules, validity of passenger insurance policies for passenger vessels, and checks for maximum authorized passenger capacity, especially to prevent overloading/overcrowding.
The PCG issues and serves Inspection Apprehension Reports (IAR) to the vessel’s Master, conducts hearings or disposition to impose fines or penalties, and coordinates with the Philippine Ports Authority to deny departure clearance if detention is warranted.
The PCG must provide monthly reports to the Secretary of DOTC, copy furnished to MARINA Administrator, detailing their conduct of deputized functions, including updates on maritime incidents and enforcement activities.
Revenues derived from these functions shall be receipted, recorded, and remitted to the Bureau of Treasury following DBM and COA rules. Deposited income certified by the bank and Bureau of Treasury must be submitted to the nearest MARINA office within seven days of the following month.
MARINA provides lists of Maritime Regional Directors and officials for coordination, copies of pertinent circulars and rules, qualification criteria, and forms and procedures. The two agencies meet regularly to review and enhance the conduct of deputized functions.