Motorized bancas plying island routes told to get radios

Motorized bancas plying inter-island routes and weighing below 35 tons are now required to have marine radio communication equipment.

The Maritime Industry Authority-7 made this rule in response to a resolution approved by the Regional Development Coordinating Council during a recent meeting.

According to the Philippine Information Agency, RDCC-7 chairman and regional police director Chief Supt. Ronald Roderos prompted the passing of the said resolution so that search and rescue groups can launch immediate and effective response operations during maritime accidents.

National Telecommunications-7 engineer Jesus Laureno said during their meeting they talked about the latest maritime mishap involving a motorized banca that capsized in the waters off Camotes Island.

They said the victim were hard to locate by rescue groups and the vessel’s crew failed to send a distress signal making it difficult for rescuers to immediately initiate response operations.

Laureno said it is important for marine transportation to have radio equipment and not rely only on mobile phones which are dependent on the availability of signal.

Marden Martin of MARINA-7 promised to enforce the regulations of NTC mandating vessels to have on board radio communications equipment which the crew can use during emergency situations.

Martin said MARINA will now require vessel operators to secure permits for their band radios first before allowing them to be registered or renew the registration of their vessels at their agency.

Motorized bancas are the most common mode of marine transportation to neighboring islands and islets.

The marine communication equipment requirement is currently imposed, but only to vessels weighing 35 tons and above.

The local Philippine Coast Guard has jurisdiction along with captains of the said vessels to allow travel on bad weather conditions which are not raised to Storm Signal No. 1.  — Ferliza C. Contratista/BRP