MANILA -- The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has advised all ship and boat owners to implement safety measures as Typhoon Ompong (international name "Mangkhut”) entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) Wednesday afternoon.
In its advisory, MARINA said ship and boat owners must exercise all preventive, precautionary and safety measures for the operations of their respective vessels and activate inclement weather assessment and/or procedures under their respective safety management systems.
“All are also requested to report any maritime accident to the authorities that may involve respective vessels,” the agency said.
MARINA will also coordinate with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on the monitoring of ports nationwide to ensure maritime safety and security during the onslaught of the typhoon.
The PCG has directed all its districts and stations in northern and central Luzon to be on alert for "Ompong's" possible effects on the maritime sector.
All district commanders in areas expected to be hit by the super typhoon were instructed to ensure the readiness of all assets and personnel to respond during emergency situations.
They are expected to coordinate with their respective Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils for possible rescue and related activities, Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Elson Hermogino said.
All types of inter-island vessels are advised to avoid sailing in areas where storm signals will be hoisted by the weather bureau, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.
"Ompong" is expected to bring heavy to intense rains, strong winds and storm surges over Luzon until the weekend. (PNA)
