A group of shippers has asked the leadership of the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) to either suspend or recall the implementation of the Blockchain-Enabled Automated System Technology (BEST).
In a letter sent to Marina administrator Sonia B. Malaluan, the Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association (PCSA) said they have been monitoring what it described as "numerous issues and problems plagued and continue to persist in the implementation of the online services of the agency."
“At the outset, while we support the modernization and digitalization of government services thereby enhancing efficiency and accessibility, it has come to our attention that numerous issues and problems plagued and continue to persist in the implementation of MARINA’s BEST,” said PCSA administrator Edgardo Nicolas in the letter sent to Marina.
“A series of new problems has arisen, causing inconveniences instead of seamless transactions, inefficiency rather than streamlined processes, and complications in the government’s vision for ease of doing business,” he added.
Marina’s BEST is an advanced web app tasked to provide online services, from application to issuance of certificates/permits, streamlined processes, real-time tracking of status, standard inspection/survey checklists, and easily verifiable documents, allowing secured and contactless transactions aimed at reducing opportunities for corruption and preserving the integrity of documents.
This system, according to the statement released by Marina, shall serve as a tool for effective monitoring and enforcement of maritime rules and regulations.
But the PCSA pointed out some of the problems, including the alleged bugs, crashes, and glitches that occurred from the initial registration and login process until accessing the main features of the online system.
“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,” the letter read.
The PCSA also stated the possibility of cyberattacks, which it said, poses a substantial threat to the integrity and safety of the system, especially the series of incidents involving the hacking of government data systems.
Instead of the full implementation, the group said Marina should have gradually implemented the BEST, possibly with a pilot program in one or two regions.
“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 would allow for the necessary improvements and refinements before a full-scale implementation,” the group said.
The PCSA is composed of Filipino ship owners that operate short and medium-haul routes and pride itself as the primary operator of the Roll-on/Roll-off ships (“RORO”) in the Strong Republic National Highway.