Question & AnswerQ&A (PPA ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 06-96)
The main objective is to protect government port facilities and to ensure the safe maneuvering of vessels at the ports within the jurisdiction of PMO-General Santos.
All foreign and domestic vessels with 1,500 gross registered tonnage (GRT) and above which dock or undock at Makar Wharf, Port of General Santos, and at other ports within the SOCSARGEN area.
The authority derives from Section 6 (a) (ii), (iii), (v), and 20 of P.D. 857 and Section 12 of PPA AO No. 03-85.
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is responsible for providing tug assistance service by authorizing shipping companies or private entities to provide such service on a non-exclusive basis.
Yes, a tugboat operator must have an annual permit issued by the Authority, subject to terms and conditions, in addition to other agency requirements.
Yes, tugboats towing their own barges or lighters are exempt from the permit when used solely for that purpose. However, if servicing other vessels, the permit is required.
For vessels 1,500 to 3,000 GRT - 500 HP tug or equivalent; 3,001 to 10,000 GRT - 700 HP tug or equivalent; 10,001 to 15,000 GRT - 1,000 HP tug or equivalent; 15,001 GRT and above - 1,500 HP tug or equivalent.
Yes, vessels with both functional bow and stern side thrusters of sufficient capacity are exempt from tug requirements. Vessels with only functional bow thrusters must have 50% of the required tug horsepower.
A combination of motor launches comprising a combined horsepower capacity equivalent to the required tugs may be allowed.
They are exempt from the tug assistance requirement but must maintain their own tugboats while at berth in accordance with PPA Memorandum Circular No. 22-86.
No, vessels of 1,500 GRT and above must have the specified tug assistance to dock and undock at Makar Wharf and other SOCSARGEN ports.
The Authority prescribes fees and rates in consultation with port users. If no rates exist, those agreed upon between the shipping company and tugboat operator apply. The Authority determines rates in case of disagreement.
The party or parties declared at fault are liable, as determined under existing applicable laws.
Such declaration shall not affect the other sections or parts of the Order which are not related or affected by the nullity.
It took effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in any newspaper of general circulation following its adoption on February 13, 1996.