BY DWIGHT S. GUMAHIN/DNSC INTERN
THE CITY Council approved in first reading a proposed measure imposing a more stringent requirement for boat operators before granting them a business permit.
Proponent Councilor Ralph Abella introduced the Maritime Passenger Safety Compliance Ordinance of Davao City during the 5th regular session, aiming to tighten the mandatory documentary requirements, including documents issued by the Maritime Industry Authority and the Philippine Coast Guard.
In his privilege speech, he underlined the responsibility of boat operators over the safety of their passengers, particularly after the recent MBCA Amejara tragedy.
“If our constituents will board a passenger boat, it’s natural that they trust the vessel has complete permits and the crew are also licensed and authorized,” Abella stated.
On the other hand, the councilor recognized the city government’s lack of monitoring and verification systems to verify the official documents that boat operators must comply with before granting them permits to operate.
“We don’t have a clear checklist on what constitutes maritime documents that we ask from them before giving boat operators a business permit,” Abella said.
Meanwhile, Councilor Josie Marie Bernardo Baluran, head of the transportation and communication committee, backed the ordinance, stressing that every passenger boat should be equipped with life-saving gear.
“Those vessels, boats, or ships should be equipped with safety vests and other life-saving equipment,” he said.
Stipulated in section 8, the proposed ordinance will penalize those who fail to comply with the requirements, such as a P5,000 fine and the suspension of the business permit.
