Philippine Port State Control Regulations

Incorporates multiple international maritime conventions such as SOLAS, Load Lines, MARPOL, STCW, Tonnage Measurement.
Follow relevant IMO Resolutions (A.466, A.481, A.787), ILO guidelines, and regional Memoranda of Understanding like the Asia-Pacific Port State Control Manual.

Applies to all foreign-flagged vessels engaged in international trade calling at Philippine ports.
Excludes naval or coast guard vessels, wooden primitive ships, non-mechanically propelled ships, and ships below convention size.

Implements uniform standards on foreign vessels as per international and national laws addressing:
- Safety of life and property at sea
- Marine pollution prevention
- Minimum shipboard conditions of employment and living arrangements
- Social and labor conditions, including work/rest hours
- Manning and competency of seafarers
Sets procedures for Port State Control (PSC) inspections by Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Clear grounds: Evidence of substantial non-compliance with conventions.
Deficiency: Condition not meeting convention requirements.
Detention: Preventing a ship from sailing due to safety or environmental threats.
More detailed inspection: Follow-up when clear grounds exist.
Stoppage of operation: Formal prohibition due to hazardous deficiencies.
Sub-standard ship: Vessel not meeting hull, machinery, equipment, or crew standards.
Valid certificate: Official document complying with convention provisions.
Recognized organization: Authorized body delegated by flag State for certification.

PCG authorized to conduct vessel inspections for safety, pollution control, and compliance with training and social standards.
PSC inspections initiated by the PCG or based on reports from other States, crew, unions, or interested parties.
Inspections performed by qualified PCG personnel trained on international and regional PSC guidelines.
Joint inspections with other agencies to minimize inconvenience and delay.

Coordination with port authorities on shipping schedules.
Verification of ship’s year of build, size, and applicability of conventions.
Assessment of mooring, gangway condition, hull condition, and load line markings before boarding.
Notification of master/senior officer about inspection purposes.
Review of last PSC inspection; limited action if satisfactory or remedial measures verified.
Full inspection for vessels without recent inspections, focusing on certificates and condition.
Detailed inspections performed if invalid certificates or clear grounds exist.
Deficiencies must be rectified within specified periods; operational restrictions or detentions may be imposed.
Minor deficiencies may allow vessel to proceed with notification to next port.
Detention guidelines include assessment of documentation, crew, and operational safety covering navigation, firefighting, pollution prevention, stability, communication, and living conditions.
Coordination with Philippine Ports Authority to hold detained vessels.
Special requirements for ships carrying dangerous goods including manifest and stowage plan.
Completion of Certificate of Orderly Inspection by master post-inspection.
Reporting procedures for non-convention ships and vessels below convention size.

District and Station Commanders ensure proper coordination, supervision, timely reports, and training of PSC inspectors.
PSC Officers responsible for notifying port authorities, conducting inspections, completing reports, and submitting to authorities and interested parties.
AC of S, CG-8 tasked with monitoring PSC activities, maintaining records, liaising with IMO and Tokyo MOU, updating regulations, and training inspectors.
Coast Guard Operations Center monitors status of detained vessels until clearance.

Conducted upon written request by vessel owner, agent, or master to verify corrections.
No fines imposed; re-inspection fees charged based on time spent onboard.
Fees processed under PCG Trust Receipt Account.