The 21st Davao City Council on Tuesday approved a resolution urging the 20th Congress of the Philippines to enact a Comprehensive Maritime law.
The approved resolution was proposed by Councilor Luna Acosta, the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Peace and Public Safety Chair.
Acosta said that the main reason for the proposal is the lack of single comprehensive law that specifically covers the safety and security of the seafaring public; criminally penalizes errant boat owners, operations crew or passengers for violating safety protocols; provides a directory of errant operators, tallies violations and ensures that violators will no longer be allowed to register or set sail in other localities.
“With the current maritime accidents plaguing the country, it is high time to increase administrative fines, implement criminal penalties, and hold offenders liable for safety violations, non-compliance with permits, and other offenses,” the resolution reads.
The resolution also seeks to streamline confusing, contradicting and overly complicated laws and regulations, and issuances governing seafaring vessels.
The body also approved that copies of the resolution be furnished to the 20th Congress of the Philippines, the Philippine Coast Guard XI, Marina XI, and all other concerned agencies for information and guidance. CIO Written by: K.Cañedo Edited by A.Nawal
