DOTr pushes for maritime safety

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has sought the establishment of a transit corridor in the Moro Gulf and Basilan Strait to protect vessels from piracy.

“This circular aims to address increasing threats to shipping in the areas…by providing a recommended transit corridor and measures to prevent or suppress acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships transiting said maritime areas,” a memorandum circular published in

The STAR yesterday stated. Piracy and cross-border kidnappings committed by suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits had been reported in the areas.

The DOTr said the circular would cover all vessels, including fishing boats, that pass through the Moro Gulf and Basilan Strait.

The department earlier issued another memorandum pushing for the establishment of a safety, security and environmental numbering system for all Philippine-registered vessels and seacraft.

The system involves the issuance of an identification number for each vessel by the Philippine Coast Guard.

A certificate, which is valid for three years, will be issued to as proof of compliance, a copy of which should be presented during inspections.