Gatchalian calls for maritime safety standards compliance

(Eagle News)–Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is calling for a review of the country’s compliance with maritime safety standards  to prevent maritime accidents.

In filing Senate Resolution No. 220, which seeks to direct the appropriate Senate Committee to conduct the inquiry, Gatchalian said there was no need to wait for another boat to sink before the country’s compliance with the maritime safety standards and maritime transportation laws set by the Maritime Industry Authority.

He said the inquiry had the “end view of enacting amendments to existing legislations that will enhance protocols on the safety and quality of passenger transport services, provide for effective supervision and regulation of all water transport in the country and ensure proper mobilization of resources for necessary maritime transportation infrastructure.”

“Hindi na natin kailangan pa na hintayin na mayroon nanamang barkong lumubog sa kasagsagan ng bagyo para i-review ..,” he said.

“It is crucial that the Philippines maintains a high standard in ensuring the safety of passengers travelling by water as well as adequate protocols to implement the same,” he added.