MARINA tells PH ships to implement 'heightened security' amid US-Iran tension

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) on Tuesday directed all Philippine-registered ships engaged in international voyages to implement precautionary measures amid the ongoing tension between the US and Iran. 

The advisory also covers shipowners, shipping companies, ship operators, managers, manning agencies, and other maritime enterprises. 

MARINA urged concerned entities to continuously monitor maritime security advisories and warnings issued by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), and relevant flag state authorities. 

“Maintain close and continuous watch of the vessel’s AIS (Automatic Identification System) and GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress Safety System) systems at all times,” the advisory read. 

“Maintain strict radio and communication protocols with UKMTO and other maritime authorities while navigating in the region,” it added. 

Further, ships are also directed to “immediately report any incident, observed military activity, or suspicious approach to the ship to MARINA, through the Overseas Shipping Service, at the earliest opportunity.” 

“Maintain 24-hour communication watch with shipping companies, technical managers, and Migrant Workers Office (MWO) posts in the region,” the advisory also read. 

MARINA also directed ship masters and crew to report the ship’s current position, next port of call, and operational status to their respective owners, operators, or managers. The latter shall report the information to MARINA. 

“Ensure that all Filipino seafarers on board are properly accounted for and their welfare is prioritized throughout the duration of the conflict... In cases where seafarers are distressed or require urgent assistance ashore in affected countries, the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate, as well as the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), must be immediately contacted,” said MARINA. 

The US and Israel on Saturday attacked Iran, which they accused of developing nuclear weapons to be used against their countries.

Iran and Israel remained at alert level 2, meaning Filipinos in the two countries are advised to shelter in place and avoid high-risk areas, the Department of Foreign Affairs said. 

But the Department of National Defense clarified that the tensions in the Middle East will have no direct threat to the country as the Philippines is not a participant in the ongoing conflict. —VAL, GMA Integrated News