TO ENSURE that motor boats in the region meet safety standards and are operating legally, government agencies started conducting on Thursday, June 20, 2019, the sustained synchronized maritime safety enforcement patrol in Lapu-Lapu City.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Central Visayas, Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) 7 and the Department of Tourism 7 conducted the inspection of boats in Mactan Island and the neighboring islets, where tourists rent boats for island hopping activities.
The agencies hope that by conducting the patrol, more tourists would be encouraged to come to Cebu and the rest of Central Visayas, knowing the facilities are safe.
At least 22 boats were inspected on the first day of the patrol, where boat operators were asked to present documents on the ownership and registration of their vessels.
“Marina 7 will conduct mobile registrations for those motorbanca without necessary documents,” PCG 7 spokesperson Lieutenant Junior Grade Michael Encina said.
The operation will continue until July 3.
“Those who are recidivists will be subject to adjudication. They will be given time and chance to comply with the required documents. If they are still not able to comply, that would be the time they would be penalized,” said Encina.
Among the boats inspected on Thursday were those used for island hopping packages offered to tourists.
“Further, this endeavor will ensure that all their operations are legitimate and in accordance with the safety standard set by the authority,” Encina added. (HBL)