Question & AnswerQ&A (PTBP MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 05-03)
Motorized/fishing bancas and sailing vessels/yachts are excluded from the application of the rules and regulations.
To improve the safety of navigation, efficiency of traffic, and protection of the marine environment in the Southern Approach of the Cebu-Mactan Channel.
A system of one or more routes or routeing measures aimed at reducing the risk of casualties; this includes traffic separation schemes and precautionary areas.
An area within defined limits where one-way traffic is established for vessels.
Vessels must proceed within the appropriate traffic lane in the general direction of traffic flow; keep near the starboard outer boundary; avoid the traffic separation zone; join or leave lanes at terminations or at a small angle; avoid crossing lanes unless at right angles; not enter the separation zone except emergencies; avoid overtaking; not anchor in or near the TSS; and comply with COLREGS rules for maneuverability and towing.
First offense: Suspension of Master/Patron's License for 3 months; Second offense: Suspension for 1 year; Third offense: Revocation of the license.
They should use the signal 'YG' (You appear not to be complying with the traffic separation scheme) and report/submit a marine protest to the nearest Philippine Coast Guard unit or at the next port of call.
PCG units forward reports/marine protests to higher command for investigation. The Coast Guard District CEV investigates incidents and recommends penalties.
Fifteen (15) days after its publication once in a newspaper of general circulation.