SAN JOSE, Occidental Mindoro (PIA) — The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), in collaboration with other government agencies launched the “Ligtas Byaheng Dagat” campaign on March 13 in San Jose town.
The campaign, which is in partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), and the Local Government Unit (LGU) San Jose, aims to promote maritime safety, enhanced sea travel and environmental protection across the coastal communities.
It also aims to educate boat operators, fisherfolk, passengers and the public on the various policies and regulations both of the national government and the local government units on sea travel.
During the dialogue, MARINA MIMAROPA Administrator Sonia Malaluan explained that the campaign goes beyond mere compliance with maritime regulations, citing that it is a shared responsibility.
“It is a mindset we must all embrace to protect lives, the environment and the future of our maritime industry ” she said.
Malaluan added that the campaign is part of a broader effort by the government to promote maritime safety across the country and foster a powerful safety culture among seafarers and coastal communities.
On the local efforts, Ma. Elena A. Gozar from the PPA Occidental Mindoro said that the agency has been implementing the maritime regulations in the province’s ports.
“PPA is always mindful of safe, responsible maritime travel for passengers or other port users and port transport of cargo. In fact, in 2015, PPA issued guidelines in the implementation of the PPA Orange Book in safety, health and environmental management in handling dangerous cargo in ports,” she said.
Meanwhile, MARINA plans to establish a local maritime safety task force in San Jose to ensure the sustainability of the campaign, monitor compliance, conduct regular training sessions, and serve as a partner between the community and national maritime authorities. (JMT/DSG/PIA MIMAROPA-Occidental Mindoro)
