Question & AnswerQ&A (MARINA ADVISORY NO. 2013-04)
The main purpose is to enhance the safety of navigation during inclement weather by requiring shipping companies certified under the ISM and NSM Codes to establish and document specific procedures to be observed during such conditions.
All shipping companies certificated under the International Safety Management (ISM) Code and National Safety Management (NSM) Code are required to comply.
Shipping companies must monitor routine weather conditions including barometric pressure, temperature, gale warnings, and Public Storm Warning Signals from PAG-ASA.
They must monitor the Public Storm Warning Signal when a typhoon enters the Philippine area of responsibility.
The advisory requires companies to have documented precautions to be observed in case of sudden changes, but does not specify exact measures; companies must establish appropriate safety procedures for such scenarios.
Ships must report hourly or more frequently to the company on their status and location during severe bad weather.
Places of shelter along the ship’s route must be identified prior to sailing.
The contact information of responsible persons within the company, rescue organizations if applicable, and the nearest Philippine Coast Guard units along the ship's route must be documented and posted.
They must have an evacuation plan for passengers and/or crew in case the ship is being rescued.
Companies must submit a copy of the draft procedures prior to the next company/ship audit.
The procedures will be included in the scope of the next company and/or ship external audit. For companies not covered by existing MARINA Circulars on ISM and NSM Codes, equivalent measures will be verified at the next ship safety inspection.
It complements the Flag State Administration Advisory No. 2011-07 dated August 11, 2011, titled Protocol During Emergencies.