Pasig LGU holds free boat registration for local fishermen, boat owners
The local government of Pasig conducted a free Mobile Registration Program for locally owned boats in the city, ensuring that fishermen and boat owners have seaworthy vessels that comply with international safety standards and gain legal clearance to operate in the country’s territorial waters.
The program was held on Thursday, Feb. 12, at Maybunga Ferry Station, which was made possible through the collaboration between the local government and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA). It was led by the City Transport Development and Management Office.
The program aims to bring boat registration services closer to communities, whether the vessels are used for livelihood, personal, or recreational purposes, to ensure that they are in good condition and comply with established international safety standards.
It also aims to help local boat owners become beneficiaries of MARINA programs and gain legal clearance to operate in the country’s territorial waters.
As part of the program, boats submitted for registration underwent on-site inspections. Boat owners’ documents were also reviewed to prepare them for online registration through the MARINA Blockchain-Enabled Automated Certification System (MARINA-BEST).
The National Telecommunications Commission also conducted a brief seminar on the proper use of two-way radio communication devices to promote safer and more efficient boat operations.
Meanwhile, as a support measure to the local boat owners, the local government covered the registration fee of P750 per applicant.
The city government said the project is currently processing five applications, which are expected to benefit from various MARINA programs.