- Details
- Parent Category: MEMO
GUIDELINES ON MOVEMENT OF VESSELS DURING HEAVY WEATHER
I. AUTHORITY:
RA 5173 as amended by PD 601
II. PURPOSE:
To prescribe policies and procedures in order to enhance maritime safety during the occurrence of tropical depression, storm or typhoon in the Philippine area of responsibility.
III. APPLICATION:
This circular shall apply to all vessels operating within the territorial jurisdiction of the Republic of the Philippines.
IV. EXEMPTIONS:
A. Tugboats purposely used in assisting vessels in docking or undocking to or from berthing piers or wharves;
B. Government-operated vessels used for non-commercial purposes; and
C. Vessels called upon by the PCG to assist in a specific search and rescue operation.
V. DEFINITION OF TERMS:
A. Heavy Weather – refers to the violent atmospheric conditions of wind and sea such as the occurrence of tropical depression, storm or typhoon.
B. MARINA – Maritime Industry Authority
C. PAGASA - Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration
D. PCG – Philippine Coast Guard
E. PPA – Philippine Ports Authority
F. Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Nr 1 - declared if winds of 30-60 kph (approximately 16 – 32 knots) are expected in the locality in at least 36 hours.
G. Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Nr 2 - raised if winds of greater than 60 kph up to 100 kph (approximately 33-54 knots) are expected in the locality in at least 24 hours.
H. Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Nr 3 - raised if winds of greater than 100 kph up to 185 kph (approximately 54-100 knots) are expected in the locality in at least 18 hours.
I. Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Nr 4 - raised if winds of greater than 185 kph (approximately 100 knots and above) are expected in the locality in at least 12 hours.
J. Public Storm Warning Signal (PSWS) Sector – refers to areas covered by PSWS Nr. 1 or PSWS Nr. 2 and higher which are shown with corresponding color codes, as provided in PAGASA website.
K. Route – as used in this circular, is defined as a way or course, taken or planned to be taken, in navigating from a point of origin to a point of destination, as differentiated from the word “route” used in MARINA issued franchises.
L. Vessel – under this circular, refers to any ship, watercraft or other conveyances used or capable of being used as means of transportation.
VI. POLICIES:
A. Vessels of 1,000 gross tons or below shall not sail, except to take shelter, when PSWS number 1 is hoisted within its point of origin or route or point of destination.
B. Movement of vessels above 1,000 gross tons is left to the discretion and responsibility of the ship owner and master when PSWS number 1 is hoisted within its point of origin or route or point of destination.
C. Vessels of any tonnage shall not sail, except to take shelter, when PSWS number 2 or higher is hoisted within its point of origin or route or point of destination.
D. Masters and ship owners of vessels above 1,000 gross tons who, based on the intent of this Circular, are given or left with the discretion to sail during a storm shall exercise extra precautionary measures and carefully study the possible effect of a storm to the vessel’s voyage with due regard to the forecasted track, wind force and radius of the storm in reference to weather bulletins and Tropical Cyclone Warning for Shipping issued by PAGASA every 0500H, 1100H, 1700H and 2300H.
E. Vessels sailing for the purpose of taking shelter shall depart without passengers. Cargoes already loaded onboard the vessel may be permitted to remain onboard provided that maximum precautionary measures shall be observed by ensuring that proper lashing and stowage are strictly followed.
F. It is the decision and responsibility of the Master and ship owner of the vessel to ensure the safety of the ship and crew whenever they decide to take shelter.
G. Vessels shall not sail when its point of origin or route or point of destination is within an applicable PSWS Sector where it is not allowed to sail (as provided in paragraphs A and C) based on the latest PAGASA weather bulletin.
H. In no way shall ship owners and Masters of vessels depart from the intent of this circular by violating the objective of the provision hereof on taking shelter.
I. Ship owners and Masters shall exercise extra-ordinary diligence required by law for common carriers in ensuring the safety of life and property at sea.
VII. PROCEDURES:
A. Every Master or any person in charge of a vessel, including the ship owner/ operator shall consider the safety of life at sea to take precedence at all times.
B. The Master or any person in charge of a vessel, including the ship owner/ operator shall ensure that the latest weather bulletin is obtained and the track of the typhoon and the PSWS Sectors are plotted on the weather chart aboard ship and at the company operations center or office.
C. When an applicable PSWS number (as provided by Section VI of this circular) is hoisted in the port where a vessel is located or along its route or point of destination, the Master or Patron, when based on his judgment, there is probable danger due to a typhoon, shall prior to the vessel’s departure, inform the nearest PCG unit in writing (as may be applicable), of his decision to take shelter in a safer place or to avoid the path of the storm, attesting therein that the decision to leave port is his, in consultation with the ship owner.
D. The Master or Patron shall disembark passengers and institute maximum precautionary measures to properly stow and secure cargoes, as prescribed by MARINA, that are already onboard before leaving port to take shelter at a safer place. Cargo watches who are tasked to ensure the safe condition of cargoes during the entire voyage/ sheltering shall be posted.
E. If already underway when an applicable PSWS number (as provided by Section VI of this circular) is hoisted in its immediate vicinity, or along its route or destination, the Master or Patron shall take no other option except to avoid the path of the storm and take shelter and promptly inform the ship owner and the nearest Coast Guard unit. Ship owners/ operators shall ensure that Masters maintain continuous communication with them and shall immediately report to the Coast Guard the ship’s compliance to this circular.
F. It is the responsibility of the master or patron of the vessel to take all the necessary precautions to avoid danger to his ship and injury to his crew and passengers.
G. Communication between the vessel and the ship owner/ operator shall be maintained at all times during the entire voyage, including vessels that are taking shelter. Communication checks between the vessel and the shipowner/ operator shall be conducted at an interval of at least every 30 minutes. Any failure of communication with the vessel shall be reported immediately by the ship owner/ operator to the nearest Coast Guard unit through any available means.
VIII. RESPONSIBILITIES:
A. Director, PCG Action Center/ Command Duty Officer:
1. Coordinate with PAGASA on the availability of weather bulletin every 0500H, 1100H, 1700H and 2300H or whenever weather updates from PAGASA are available and immediately disseminate same through fastest means of communications to all PCG units, prioritizing the areas directly affected or may be affected by the typhoon.
2. Plot in the weather chart the track, forecast position of the typhoon and PSWS Sectors in reference to paragraph 1 hereof.
3. Immediately advise the Commandant, PCG of any major maritime incident.
4. Continuously monitor all PCG units and take appropriate action on all reported maritime incidents. Recommend to the Chief, CG Staff the activation of the Crisis Management Committee in case of major incidents.
5. Perform other tasks as the Commandant, PCG may direct.
B. PCG District Commanders:
1. Monitor and promptly obtain the latest weather bulletin through HPCG or PAGASA.
2. Plot in the weather chart the track, forecast position of the typhoon and PSWS Sectors in reference to paragraph 1 hereof.
3. Promptly disseminate the latest weather bulletin to all subordinate units.
4. Render situation report (SITREP) to HPCG at intervals as indicated:
a. every 6 hours if signal number 1 and 2 are hoisted
b. every 3 hours if signal number 3 is hoisted
c. every hour if signal number 4 is hoisted
(Note: SITREP to include weather and Maritime Traffic Condition.)
5. Monitor distress frequencies (VHF-Channel 16 [156.8 Mhz] and HF 2182 Khz H3E [AM] transmission) particularly during adverse/heavy weather condition.
6. Perform other duties as the Commandant, PCG may direct.
C. PCG Station/Detachment Commanders:
1. Promptly obtain and monitor the latest weather bulletin through the District Headquarters, HPCG or PAGASA.
2. Plot in the weather chart the track, forecast position of the typhoon and PSWS Sectors in reference to paragraph 1 hereof. Display the weather chart in a conspicuous area within the Station/ Detachment office for the benefit of those who want to be appraised of the prevailing weather condition.
3. Promptly disseminate the latest weather update to all subordinate units.
4. Render situation report to District Headquarters at intervals as indicated:
a. every 6 hours if PSWS Nr 1 and 2 are hoisted
b. every 3 hours if PSWS Nr 3 is hoisted
c. every hour if PSWS Nr 4 is hoisted
5. Put on record all notifications from vessels intending to seek shelter.
6. Monitor distress frequencies (VHF-Channel 16 [156.8 Mhz] and HF 2182 Khz H3E [AM] transmission) particularly during adverse/heavy weather condition.
7. Perform other tasks as the District Commander and/or the Commandant, PCG may direct.
D. Ship Owners/ Operators:
1. Ensure that all vessels are properly informed of weather updates that are promptly obtained from PAGASA or other available sources, to include the PSWS Sectors where typhoon signals are hoisted or may be hoisted.
2. Install weather fax and other weather monitoring equipment as prescribed by MARINA.
3. Disallow Master or Patron from having the vessel depart from port, except for sheltering purposes, when typhoon signal wherein his vessel is not allowed to sail is hoisted or expected to be hoisted within the area of origin or along the route or destination of the vessel.
4. Monitor and maintain communication with their vessel from the time it departed the port until its arrival at the port of destination.
5. When the vessel is already en route to its destination and once an applicable PSWS number, per this circular, is hoisted in its immediate vicinity or along its route or point of destination, order the Master or Patron to seek shelter. Ensure that the Master or Patron maintain continuous communication with the shipowner/ operator and notify the PCG of the vessel’s action to take shelter.
6. Keep track of all weather bulletins or reports for dissemination purposes as well as monitor all their vessels’ situation or movement until the typhoon leaves Philippine AOR.
7. Should typhoon signal be lifted by PAGASA, order the Master or Patron to inform the nearest PCG unit of its intent to proceed or continue with her voyage to her destination.
8. Inform the PCG immediately of any unusual incident, such as their vessel being involved in a maritime incident or is missing or has lost contact or developed engine derangement.
9. Direct Masters to institute maximum precautionary measures to ensure proper stowage and lashing of cargoes, as prescribed by MARINA, before departure and cause the posting of watches to ensure the safe condition of cargoes during the entire voyage/ sheltering.
10. Require Masters, Operations Officers or representatives involved in the safe operation of their ships to review/ study the Typhoon Evasion or Avoidance Doctrine.
E. Masters / Patrons:
1. Obtain and monitor the weather bulletin through PAGASA, company offices and other available sources.
2. Plot the prevailing weather condition, weather forecast and PSWS Sectors on the weather chart.
3. Inform the nearest PCG unit of his decision to depart to seek shelter as may be necessary.
4. Ensure that there are no passengers onboard when departing from port to seek shelter.
5. Take no other option except to take shelter and immediately inform the ship owner if a PSWS Nr., where his vessel is not allowed to sail as per this circular, is raised while underway. Ensure that they maintain continuous communication with ship owners/ operators. Notify the PCG of said action.
6. Institute maximum precautionary measures to ensure proper stowage and lashing of cargoes, as prescribed by MARINA, before departure and cause the posting of watches to ensure the safe condition of cargoes during the entire voyage/ sheltering.
7. Review/ study the Typhoon Evasion or Avoidance Doctrine.
8. The overall responsibility of ensuring the safety of the ship, its passengers and crew rests with the Master/Patron at all times.
IX. RESCISSION CLAUSE:
This Memorandum Circular rescinds MC Number 06-08 dated 30 June 2008.
X. EFFECTIVITY:
This Memorandum Circular shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation.
SGD
VADM WILFREDO D TAMAYO PCG
Commandant, PCG
- Details
- Parent Category: MEMO
ROUTING SYSTEM AT VERDE ISLAND PASSAGE AND THE BATANGAS SEALANE
I. AUTHORITY:
R.A. 5173, as amended by P.D. 601
II. REFERENCES:
a. Philippine Coast Pilot, 6th Edition, 1995
b. Regulation V 8 of the SOLAS Convention 1974/1978 as amended
c. COLREGS Convention 72 as amended
d. IMO Ships’ Routing System
e. HPCG MC 04-03 dated 09 July 03, Routing System at Verde Island Passage
f. PPA – Port District of Southern Luzon Proposed Sealane at Batangas Harbor dated 23 June 06
III. PURPOSE:
This Memorandum Circular prescribes the rules and regulations to be followed by vessels navigating the area along Verde Island passage, Batangas Bay and designated inshore traffic zones.
IV. SCOPE:
These rules and regulations apply to all vessels transiting through the North and South passages of Verde Island, the north and south lanes of the Batangas sealane and designated inshore traffic zones.
V. DEFINITION OF TERMS:
a. Area to be avoided - an area within defined limits in which either navigation is particularly hazardous and which should be avoided by all ships.
b. Established direction of traffic flow - a traffic pattern indicating the directional movement of traffic as established within a traffic separation scheme.
c. Inshore Traffic Zone - area between the landward boundary of a traffic separation scheme and the adjacent coast.
d. Precautionary Area - an area within defined limits where ships must navigate with particular caution.
e. Recommended Track - a route, which has been specially examined to ensure as far as possible that it is free of dangers and along which are advised to navigate.
f. Routing System - any system of one or more routes or routing measures aimed at reducing the risk of casualties; this system includes traffic separation schemes and precautionary areas.
g. Separation Zone - a zone separating the traffic lanes in which ships are proceeding in opposite or nearly opposite directions.
h. Traffic Lane - an area within defined limits in which one-way traffic is established.
i. Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) - a routing measure aimed at the separation of opposing traffic by appropriate means and by the establishment of traffic lanes.
VI. CONCEPT:
a. The Vessel Traffic Monitoring System, through its Control Center at the Port of Batangas, shall monitor and manage the movements of vessels in the established TSS.
b. Imaginary lines consisting of a separation zone, traffic lanes and inshore traffic zones are established along the channel as described in Section VII.
c. The Rules of the Road shall apply in all respects along with the prescribed rules and regulations herein. Notwithstanding Section VIII, the General Prudential Rule of the COLREGS shall take precedence over the prescribed rules and regulations herein.
d. The Routing System at Verde Island Passage is reflected in NAMRIA Chart Number 4214 (Verde Island Passage).
VII. AREA DESIGNATION:
a. Description of Verde Island Passage TSS
1) A separation zone is bounded by lines connecting the following geographical positions:
a) Point ( A ) Lat 13º 34.8’ N Long 120º 54.3’ E
b) Point ( B ) Lat 13º 34.4’ N Long 120º 54.3’ E
c) Point ( C ) Lat 13º 34.4’ N Long 121º 02.3’ E
d) Point ( D ) Lat 13º 34.8’ N Long 121º 02.45’ E
2) A separation zone is bounded by lines connecting the following geographical positions:
a) Point ( E ) Lat 13º 32.9’ N Long 121º 05.9’ E
b) Point ( F ) Lat 13º 33.2’ N Long 121º 05.85’ E
c) Point ( G ) Lat 13º 33’ N Long 121º 13.6’ E
d) Point ( H ) Lat 13º 30.65’ N Long 121º 16.5’ E
e) Point ( I ) Lat 13º 30.45’ N Long 121º 16.3’ E
f) Point ( J ) Lat 13º 32.8’ N Long 121º 13.5’ E
3) A traffic lane for northbound traffic is established between the separation zones described in paragraphs VII (a1) and VII (a2) and a line connecting the following geographical positions
a) Point ( K ) Lat 13º 36.8’ N Long 121º 54.3’ E
b) Point ( L ) Lat 13º 36.8’ N Long 121º 05.3’ E
c) Point ( M ) Lat 13º 35.3’ N Long 121º 15.5’ E
d) Point ( N ) Lat 13º 32.5’ N Long 121º 18.6’ E
4) A traffic lane for southbound traffic is established between the separation zones described in paragraphs VII (a1) and VII (a2) and a line connecting the following geographical positions:
a) Point ( O ) Lat 13º 32.7’ N Long 121º 54.3’ E
b) Point ( P ) Lat 13º 32.6’ N Long 121º 00.1’ E
c) Point ( Q ) Lat 13º 28.9’ N Long 121º 03.1’ E
d) Point ( R ) Lat 13º 30.6’ N Long 121º 12.1’ E
e) Point ( S ) Lat 13º 28.6’ N Long 121º 14.3’ E
b. Batangas Sealane
1) A sealane within Batangas Bay is hereby established. The sealane are dedicated navigational channels intended for the control of traffic of all watercraft and ships plying the North and South lanes of the bay bounded between the separation line or zone which are connected by geographical positions through longitude and latitude.
2) The specific sealane starts from the harbor limit at the south joining between Matocco point and Malahibong Manok covering a length of five miles and ends at the north side at about three miles SSW off Sta. Clara port. The sealane has a width of two (2) nautical miles with a separation line inside the lane of 0.3 miles or 600 meters. Entry lane for the north bound is one (1) mile off Matoco point with one (1) nautical mile width westward. Exit point is one (1) mile east off Malahibong Manok with one (1) mile width eastward.
3) At each side of the sealane is one (1) nautical mile clearance on both sides (east and west) which serves as entrance and exit for the Inshore Traffic Zones. These are the areas of Batangas Harbor not covered by the sealane.
4) A traffic for North and South bound is established on both sides of the separation line/zone described in coordinates below connected by straight lines between points (Refer to Chart in Annex A)
a) Point (A) Lat 13º 42.6’ N Long 121º 00.1’ E
b) Point (B) Lat 13º 41.4 N Long 121º 00.0’ E
c) Point (C) Lat 13º 37.7’ N Long 121º 00.0’ E
d) Point (D) Lat 13º 37.7’ N Long 120º 59.7 E
e) Point (E) Lat 13º 41.5 N Long 120º 59.7 E
f) Point (F) Lat 13º 42.7 N Long 120º 59.8 E
g) Point (G) Lat 13º 42.8’ N Long 120º 58.8’ E
h) Point (H) Lat 13º 41.7 N Long 120º 58.7 E
i) Point (I) Lat 13º 37.7 N Long 120º 58.7’ E
j) Point (J) Lat 13º 37.7’ N Long 121º 01.0’ E
k) Point (K) Lat 13º 41.3 N Long 121º 01.0’ E
l) Point (L) Lat 13º 42.5’ N Long 121º 01.1’ E
5) The Northbound sealane comprises points (A), (B), (C), (J), (K) and (L) while southbound sealane comprises points (D), (E), (F), (G), (H) and (I).
c. Areas to be Avoided
1) An area to be avoided is established at the vicinity of Verde Island bounded by a line connecting the following geographical positions:
a) Point ( T ) Lat 13º 31’ N Long 121º 04’ E
b) Point ( U ) Lat 13º 31.35’ N Long 121º 06.75’ E
c) Point ( V ) Lat 13º 33’ N Long 121º 05.8’ E
d) Point ( W ) Lat 13º 34.6’ N Long 121º 05.8’ E
e) Point ( X ) Lat 13º 34.8’ N Long 121º 02.6’ E
f) Point ( Y ) Lat 13º 33.6’ N Long 121º 02.1’E
2) To protect the marine sanctuaries in the Maricaban waters, passage through Maricaban Strait shall be strictly limited only for vessels of 20 meters or less in length and not engaged in the carriage of oil products and other hazardous substances. Said passage shall also be mainly for the purpose of passing through from/to Batangas Bay to/from Balayan Bay. No fishing/ fishing related activity is allowed within Maricaban Stait.
d. Precautionary Areas
1) Precautionary areas are established when transiting the traffic lane close to Verde Island and when changing courses to steer.
2) The area at the north end of the sealane is called precautionary area centered on Lat 13º 44.25’ N Long 121º 00.70’ E west of the Port of Batangas (Baseport) where all vessels shall observed extra precautionary measures in maneuvering due to expected traffic congestion.
e. Inshore Traffic Zones
1) The area between the northbound traffic lane and the Batangas coast until Maricaban Island.
2) The area between the southbound traffic lane and the Mindoro coastline.
f. Designated Reference Points For Ship Reporting
1) Verde Island TSS North passage
a) Malabrigo Point Lat 13º 36.0’ N Long 121º 15.6’ E
b) Verde East Lat 13º 34.8’ N Long 121º 02.6’ E
c) Arenas Point Lat 13º 37.2’ N Long 121º 04.6’ E
d) Verde North Lat 13º 34.8’ N Long 121º 02.6’ E
e) Matucco Point Lat 13º 38.4’ N Long 121º 01.9’ E
f) Malahibo Lat 13º 37.6’ N Long 120º 57.8’ E
g) Papaya Point Lat 13º 37.2’ N Long 120º 54.0’ E
2) Verde Island TSS South passage
a) Calapan Point Lat 13º 26.2’ N Long 121º 11.7’ E
b) Baco Chico Lat 13º 29.4’ N Long 121º 10.6’ E
c) Verde South Lat 13º 31.35’ N Long 121º 06.75’ E
d) Verde West Lat 13º 31.0’ N Long 121º 04.0’ E
e) Escarceo Point Lat 13º 31.4’ N Long 120º 59.2’ E
f) Minolo Point Lat 13º 30.7 N Long 120º 54.4’ E
3) Batangas sealane and inshore traffic zone
a) Batangas Entrance- Lat 13º 42.60’ N Long 121º 00.10’ E
b) Batangas Inshore East Area
c) Batangas Inshore West Area
d) Casador Point Lat 13º 41.0 N Long 121º 53.40’ E
e) Gamao Point Lat 13º 39.40’ N Long 120º 55.90’ E
VIII. GENERAL GUIDELINES
a. The established TSS shall be mandatory for all vessels of more than 20 meters in length that shall pass through Batangas Bay and the North or South Passage of Verde Island for use by day and by night in all weather condition.
b. A vessel navigating a TSS shall:
1) Proceed within the appropriate traffic lane in the general direction of traffic flow for that lane;
2) Keep as near to the outer boundary of the traffic lane, which lies on her starboard side as safe and practicable; and
3) As far as practicable, keep clear of the traffic separation zone.
c. A vessel shall, as far as practicable, avoid crossing traffic lanes, but if obliged to do so, shall cross on a heading as nearly as practicable at right angle to the general direction of the traffic flow.
d. Normally join or leave a traffic lane at the termination of the lane, but when joining or leaving from either side, shall do so at as small an angle to the general direction of established traffic flow as practicable.
e. A vessel shall not use the designated inshore traffic zone when she can safely use the appropriate traffic lane. The inshore traffic zone is for vessels optional to pass the traffic lanes.
f. Notwithstanding subparagraph e(1), a vessel may use the inshore traffic zone when en route to or from a place situated within the inshore traffic zone, or to avoid immediate danger.
g. A vessel other than a crossing vessel or a vessel joining or leaving a lane shall not enter the separation zone except in cases of emergency to avoid immediate danger.
h. A vessel navigating in areas near the terminations of the TSS shall do so with particular caution.
i. No vessel shall anchor in or near the TSS, or in areas near its termination.
j. A vessel not using the TSS shall avoid it by as wide a margin as practicable.
k. Vessels that are not mandatory to navigate within the TSS shall not impede the passage of a power-driven vessels following the established traffic flow of a traffic lane.
l. By Rules 10(k) and 10(l) of the COLREGS, a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver when engaged in an operation for either the maintenance of safety of navigation or the laying, servicing or picking up of a submarine cable within the traffic separation scheme is exempted from complying with Rule 10 and the rules herein to the extent necessary to carry out the operation. However, shipmasters/owners/operators, government and non-government entities that may be involved in this operation should ensure that the Philippine Coast Guard, through its Districts/ Stations/ Detachments and the Maritime Safety Services Office, shall be informed for the issuance of appropriate Notice to Mariners. And no operation shall be undertaken until after its issuance and dissemination.
m. No fishing/fishing-related and recreational activity shall be allowed within the TSS.
n. When a master of a vessel observes another vessel not following the prescribed passage rules, he shall appropriately use “YG,” meaning you appear not to be complying with the traffic separation scheme, as provided in the International Code of Signals.
IX. PROCEDURES
a. Verde Island passage
1) When entering and navigating inside the TSS, all vessels shall report to the VTMS Control Center with the following information.
a) Ship identification, type, gross tonnage;
b) Position either in relation to the reference points as enumerated in section VII e, chart plot in Longitude and Latitude or GPS reading; and
c) Whenever possible, the cruising speed and expected time of arrival at the next reference point.
2) For other procedures, refer to section VIII (General Guidelines).
b. Batangas Sealane
1) While traversing inside the Batangas Sealane TSS, vessels shall proceed at safe speed (as described in Rule 6 of COLREGS).
2) Northbound and inbound vessels shall commence entry at Lat 13º 37.70’ N or when Malajibong Manok light is abeam on her portside.
3) The Northbound TSS shall terminate upon entry of vessels to precautionary area in position Lat 13º 42.75’ N and Long 121º 00.06’ East.
4) Vessels outbound shall depart precautionary area and enter southbound TSS in position Lat 13º 42.85’ N Long 120º 59.40’ East.
5) South TSS shall terminate at Lat 13º 37.70’ North or when Malajibong Manok is on her starboard beam.
c. Inshore Traffic Zone
1) Vessels with 20 meters or less in length may be allowed to navigate inside the inshore traffic zone.
2) All fishing/ fishing related and recreational activity may be allowed in this area.
X. EMERGENCY RULES OF PASSAGE:
a. In cases of emergency, a vessel shall steer towards a safe sea and as far as possible out of the TSS.
b. A vessel not under command shall strictly conform to Rule 27 of COLREGS.
XI. RESPONSIBILITIES:
a. All ship masters/owners/operators shall be held responsible for disseminating the rules and regulations prescribed herein.
b. Masters/patrons of ships/vessels shall be held responsible for any loss of life and/or property as may be caused by any deviation or non-compliance with the provisions of this Memorandum Circular.
c. Master/Patron of any vessel observing vessels not following the Rules of Passage shall report/submit a marine protest as soon as possible to the nearest PCG Unit or at the next port of call.
d. PCG units, outside of CGDSTL, receiving the report/marine protest shall immediately forward it to HPCG (Attn: CG-3/CGAC), which in turn shall forward it to HCGD STL and CG-8.
XII. DISPOSITIVE ACTION:
Coast Guard District STL (SBMI) shall investigate all reported incidents/ violations herein and shall recommend the following:
a. First Offense: Suspension of Master/Patron’s License for three (3) months;
b. Second Offense: Suspension of Master/Patron’s License for one (1) year; and
c. Third Offense: Revocation of the Master/Patron’s License
XIII. REPEALING CLAUSE:
The provisions of Memorandum Circular 04-03 and 06-93 inconsistent with this Circular are hereby amended/ modified accordingly.
XIV. EFFECTIVITY:
This Memorandum Circular shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation.
SGD
VADM WILFREDO D. TAMAYO PCG
Commandant, PCG
- Details
- Parent Category: MEMO
Department of Transportation and Communications
PUNONGHIMPILAN TANOD BAYBAYIN NG PILIPINAS
(Headquarters Philippine Coast Guard)
139 25th Street, Port Area
1018 Manila
HPCG/CG8
MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR
NUMBER . ........ .... .. 08-12
24 August 2012
Date
EMERGENCY READINESS EVALUATION (ERE)
I. AUTHORITY:
Republic Act 9993 {The Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009)
II. REFERENCES:
A. DOTC Department Order 2012-01 dated 09 Jan 2012 entitled Mandating the Strict Implementation of Precautionary, Safety and Security Measures to Ensure Safe, Fast, Efficient and Reliable Transportation Services, the Immediate Implementation of Quick Response Protocols, and the Immediate Investigation of Transformation-Related Incidents
B. Philippine Merchant Marine Rules and Regulations (PMMRR), as amended
C. SOlAS 74/78, as amended
III. PURPOSE:
To prescribe policies for the conduct of Emergency Readiness Evaluation
{ERE) to all Philippine registered vessels to determine their compliance to safety standards and readiness of the Officers and crew in responding to any emergency situation on board the vessel while underway or at port, to be carried out by qualified PCG Vessel Safety Enforcement Inspectors.
IV SCOPE:
This Memorandum Circular applies to all Philippine-registered vessels engaged in domestic trade to include fishing vessels of 3 gross tonnage and above calling at domestic ports except for ships not propeHed by mechanical means, wooden ships of primitive build, ships of war and troopships, Government vessels and pleasure yachts not engaged in trade.
V. DEFINITION OF TERMS:
For purposes of this Circular, the following words and phrases shall be defined as:
Clear Grounds - evidence that the ship, its equipment, or its crew does not correspond substantially with the requirements of the relevant maritime laws or that the master or crew members are not familiar with essential shipboard procedures relating to the safety of the ships or the prevention of the pollution
Deficiency - a condition found not to be in compliance with the requirements of the relevant maritime regulations
Emergency Readiness Evaluation Report - an assessment report conducted by the VSE lnspectqrs in relation to emergency response of officers and crew of the vessel on dealing evitable emergency circumstances.
Seaworthy - ability to withstand ordinary stress of wind, waves and other weather disturbances which the vessel might normally be expected to encounter and that it is manned by competent officers and crew.
Detention - intervention action taken by the Vessel Safety Enforcement Inspectors when the condition of the ship or its crew does not correspond substantially with the applicable laws to ensure that the ship will not sail until it can proceed to sea without presenting any danger to the ship or person on board, or without presenting any threat of harm to the marine environment;
Stoppage of an Operation - formal prohibition against a ship to continue an operation due to an identified deficiency(ies) which, singly or together, render the continuation of such operation hazardous
Vessel Safety Enforcement Inspectors (VSEI) - a duly authorized and qualified PCG personnel who are composed of Boarding, Vessel Safety Enforcement Inspection, Emergency Readiness Evaluation and Operational Readiness Evaluation Teams that checks the validity of vessel and crew documents and the over-all condition of the vessel's hull, machinery and equipment.
VI. POLICIES:
A. The Emergency Readiness Evaluation is conducted as part of precautionary measures and protocols to ensure that quick and efficient response is available on board the vessel for the safety of the passengers, crew, the vessel itself and the cargoes on board;
B. It is the primary responsibility of the Master of the vessel and shipowner/company management to ensure that the officers and crew manning the vessel are competent, ready, equipped and well trained in responding to any emergency situation on board the vessel or at port at all times.
C. The evaluation shall be conducted for the following simulated emergency situations:
1. Abandonship
2. Fire in Port or at Sea
3. Collision at Port I Sea
4. Emergency Steering Casualty
5. Man Overboard
6. Bomb threat
7. Hostage taking
8. Explosion
9. Piracy
D. The shipowner I operator may or may not be notified prior to the conduct of actual ERE on a specific vessel;
E. The shipowner or Master may request the Commandant, PCG for Vessel Safety Enforcement Inspectors for the conduct ERE on their vessels;
F. The emergency readiness of all vessels covered by this Circular shall be subject for evaluation by PCG-VSE Inspectors once in every six (6) months;
G. The evaluation may be conducted more than once within the period of six months in case the emergency readiness of the officers and crew of the vessel is found to be unsatisfactory and that there is a clear showing of potential danger on board which could lead to loss of lives and property at sea and damage to the marine environment;
H. The shipowner I operator I master shall be informed of the result of evaluation. The deficiencies.noted during the actual ERE shall be rectified within seven days upon the receipt of the evaluation result;
I. In case the officers and crew do not meet the prescribed standard operational and emergency readiness, they shall be required to undergo re-training and re-evaluation until such time that the standard of readiness has been satisfactorily met.
J. The master shall provide proper billeting for PCG VSE Inspectors during the conduct of evaluation and may stay aboard for the return trip if more time is needed to complete the evaluation;
K. The shipowner or Master may request the PCG VSE Inspectors to conduct training on emergency readiness provided that the company shall shoulder the expenses of the team.
VII. FINES, FEES AND PENALTIES:
A. In case the emergency readiness is found to be unsatisfactory during the evaluation, the shipowner I operator or master shall be issued an Enforcement Apprehension Inspection Report, as defined under HPCG Memorandum Circular on Vessel Safety Enforcement Inspection, Such deficiency shall be reflected in the Vessel Inspection Record Booklet.
B. Unsatisfactory rating is a clear ground for the vessel to be temporarily suspended from operating until such time that the standard of readiness has been satisfactorily met.
C. In case that during re evaluation, it was found out that the shipowner or Master did not remedy or rectify the findings of unsatisfactory performance of the officers and crew or deficiency in responding to emergency situation, the following fees/fines/penalties shall apply:
| Inspection Remarks | Fines/Fees/Penalties |
| Unsatisfactory over-all performance |
|
| Failure to rectify and attain a satisfactory over-all rating within 7 calendar days |
|
| Failure to attain a satisfactory over-all rating after two (2) re inspections |
|
VIII. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE:
Any section or provision of this Memorandum Circular held or declared unconstitutional or invalid by a competent court, shall not affect the other sections or provisions hereof 'and shall continue to be enforced as if the sections or provisions so annulled or voided had never been incorporated herein.
IX. REPEALING CLAUSE:
This Memorandum Circular rescinds previous publications pertaining to the conduct of ERE. The provisions of existing Memorandum Circulars which are inconsistent with this Memorandum Circular are hereby modified accordingly.
X. AUTOMATIC REVIEW:
This Memorandum Circular shall be subject to automatic review one year after its effectivity or as necessary.
XI. EFFECTIVITY:
This Memorandum Circular shall take effect fifteen (15) day in a newspaper of general circulation or the Official Gazette.
EDMUND C TAN
VADM PCG
Commandant, PCG
APPROVED BY:
MAR ROXAS
SECRETARY, DOTC
ANNEXES;
1. Enforcement Inspection Apprehension Report (Form A)
2. Certificate of Orderly Inspection (Form B)
3. ERE Form (Form E)
a) EE Checklist for Abandonship
b) ERE Checklist for Fire in Port / at Sea
c) ERE Checklist for Collision at Port / at Sea
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