Ship operators were told Friday to strictly follow precautionary measures implemented during weather disturbances as Typhoon Rolly is expected to hit the country.

Through the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Advisory 2020-79, shipowners are advised to monitor and comply with the weather announcements from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration (PAGASA) together with the Notices to Mariners issued daily by the NAMRIA and the Philippine Coast Guard relating to sea state and gale warnings.

Communication equipment should always be observed closely to maintain safety and avoid disaster on board and at sea, MARINA said, adding that ship operators must strictly comply with safe practice for cargo stowage and securing in the domestic shipping.

“Ships should not sail if the port of destination or areas of operations are affected by even the lowest signal of weather disturbance, and shipowners must ensure that their ships have been put to shelter without delay,” the agency said.

Officers and crew members were also urged to be alert at all times and prepared for abrupt changes in weather conditions as areas which may have been considered sheltered may quickly become exposed.

It added that shipowners should follow the warnings and advice of the government forces stationed at the ports of the movement of vessels during the heavy weather.

“In areas or ports where there are no government regulators, all concerned entities should observe precautions and regulate their operations as deemed necessary. Upon the announcement of even the lowest weather disturbance signal, big and small watercraft should not sail,” MARINA noted.