Article by:
Raymond Carl Dela Cruz
MANILA – The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) is looking into the nationwide adoption of the digital passenger manifest systems among domestic shipping operators, particularly for short-distance routes.
In a message on Wednesday, MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan said the standard is currently being implemented in Iloilo and Guimaras to automatically generate passenger manifests, and can also be used for fare payment.
The digital passenger manifest system involves the use of tap-and-go cards or quick response (QR) codes developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) with a private technology partner.
“This QR-based system allows passengers to register through a mobile application and automatically generate a digital passenger manifest, though it does not yet include a payment function,” Malaluan said.
MARINA is coordinating with the DICT to expand the use of the technology in more maritime routes and will initially focus on short-distance and river routes with travel times of less than one hour.
“The goal is to ensure that all passengers are properly manifested before boarding, improving passenger safety and accountability,” she said.
MARINA will allow smaller operators to use either tap card and QR code systems for flexibility, depending on their operational needs and constraints such as lack of internet access.
To date, the digital manifest system is implemented at the Parola Wharf in Iloilo City and the Jordan and Buenavista ports in Guimaras.
In a visit to the ports on Tuesday, Malaluan commended the ferry operators for the innovative solution and for using technology to improve passenger experience and enhance operational efficiency.
The operators using the tap-and-go card system include Guimaras Island Transport Multipurpose Cooperative (GITMPC) and BAMOSA Marine Transport Corporation while the QR code-based system is used by Buenavista and Jordan Ferry, Inc. (BJFI).
“All systems ensure that tickets issued do not exceed the capacity of the boats,” she said.
On Thursday, MARINA, Bangsamoro MARINA, and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) made a joint reaffirmation towards stricter enforcement of laws, rules and regulations in domestic shipping, especially by ensuring that no domestic vessel can sail without the required certificates and documents.
These efforts are part of the country’s whole-of-country response to recent maritime incidents, such as the capsizing of MBCA Amejara and the sinking of MV Trisha Kerstin 3 in January. (PNA)
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