Group asks MARINA: Suspend digitalization

CEBU, Philippines — The country's largest shipping association has written to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) expressing their appeal for the immediate suspension or recall of the implementation of Blockchain Enabled Automated System Technology (BEST).

In the letter, the Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association (PCSA), a group composed of Filipino ship owners, told Marina administrator Sonia Malaluan that while it supports the modernization and digitalization of government services by enhancing efficiency and accessibility, it has come to its attention that numerous issues and problems has persisted in the implementation of MARINA’s BEST.

In the letter, signed by PSCA administrator Edgardo Nicolas, the group noted a series of new problems in the BEST implementation, causing inconveniences instead of seamless transactions, inefficiency rather than streamlined processes, and complications in the government's vision for ease of doing business.

The group cited that bugs, crashes, and glitches occurred from the initial registration and login process until accessing the main features of this online system, like missing information on vessels by member operators.

“These technical issues are not just minor inconveniences as operators rely on a timely, accurate, and reliable system of processing maritime-related licenses and documents. Any malfunctions and glitches in this system can lead to substantial delays, financial losses, and disruption of shipping services needed by the riding public,” part of the letter reads.

Moreover, they said that the risk of hacking and cyberattacks pose a substantial threat to the integrity and safety of the system, especially considering the recent hacking incidents of various government websites, including MARINA's.

“Our personal data, including sensitive and confidential information, must be protected with the highest possible security measures. Unfortunately, recent events have demonstrated that even governmental systems are vulnerable and susceptible to breaches which MARINA ought to prevent,” the group said.

PCSA said that while it is supportive of the digitalization and modernization of MARINA's system, it cannot brush aside these serious concerns and the safety, security, and reliability of governmental services should remain the foremost consideration.

The group stressed that MARINA should have ensured that the system is complete, accurate, stable, and secure before the roll-out.

It said that the implementation of MARINA's BEST should be done gradually, starting with a pilot program in one or two regions, as suggested during the program's orientation in Cebu.

The group added that It would also be more prudent to limit the system's coverage to applications, such as new ship construction or new importation in order to test its viability and operability.

This approach, it said, would allow for the necessary improvements and refinements before a full-scale implementation.

“In light of the foregoing, we urge and implore the good Administrator to immediately suspend or recall the nationwide implementation of MARINA's BEST and ensure that these concerns are properly addressed before moving forward. We trust that you will give this matter your usual serious anc preferential attention,” the group further said.

Member-ship operators of PCSA operate short and medium-haul routes and pride themselves as the primary operator of the Roll-on/Roll-off ships (RORO) in the Strong Republic National Highway. – (CEBU NEWS)