Coverage and Scope
- Applies to passenger ships 300 Gross Tons (GT) and above.
- Applies to cargo ships 500 GT and above.
Key Definitions
- Administration: Refers to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).
- Automatic Identification System (AIS): An automatic tracking and identification system used on ships and vessel traffic services for exchanging navigational data electronically.
- Company: Ship owner or any person/organization responsible for ship operation including managers or bareboat charterers who assume operational duties.
Installation and Operation Requirements (General Provisions)
- Existing covered ships must install Class A AIS per the transitory schedule.
- Newly acquired ships must have Class A AIS installed before operating domestically.
- AIS capabilities include automatic transmission and reception of ship identity, type, position, course, and speed.
- Compliance with AIS requirements is mandatory for issuance of the ship's safety certificate.
- Operating ships without functional AIS will be put in a "no sail" condition.
- AIS must remain operational at all times except when disabled under international agreements to protect navigational information.
- AIS may be switched off temporarily if its operation compromises vessel safety/security; such actions must be logged.
- AIS must be reactivated once the risk is mitigated.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Cargo ships 500 GT and above:
- Fine of Php 40,000
- Suspension of Safety Certificate until compliance
- Passenger ships 300 GT and above:
- Fine of Php 50,000
- Suspension of Safety Certificate until compliance
Repealing Clause
- Amends or modifies any inconsistent provisions of prior MARINA Memorandum Circulars, rules, and regulations.
Separability Clause
- If any provision is declared invalid or unconstitutional, the rest remain effective and enforceable.
Transitory Provision
- AIS installation required within six (6) months from the circular's effectivity for all covered ships.
Effectivity Clause
- The circular takes effect fifteen (15) days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation.