Gov’t urged to review vessel tonnage amid underreporting

A group of ship operators is demanding the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to look into possible violations of some vessels on gross tonnage that could be risky for passengers.

- By ELIJAH FELICE ROSALES

In a letter, the Bicol Roro Shipping Operators Association asked MARINA to investigate what it views as a proliferating practice among some shipowners to underreport their tonnage.

The letter, addressed to MARINA administrator Sonia Malaluan, detailed how some shipowners are misreporting their tonnage to place their vessels on lower regulation.

The association, represented by legal counsel Lyndon Ancajas Jr., said such a practice allows the shipowners to avoid stricter rules on manning and safety protocols. It also reduces statutory fees that they have to pay to regulators.