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The Maritime Industry Authority has eased shipping schedules in the Matnog-Allen route from October 25 to November 7
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MARINA Advisory No. 2023-26 was issued in view of the expected influx of passengers and cargoes/rolling cargoes during the local elections on October 30, All Saints’ Day on November 1 and All Souls’ Day on November 2
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During the period, ships can increase their sailing frequencies and immediately depart once their maximum authorized passenger and/or cargo capacities are attained
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All ships calling Matnog port and Allen port were directed to adhere to designated port time stays to ensure proper berthing space allocation and avoid port congestion
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has temporarily eased shipping schedules in the Matnog-Allen route to prevent congestion resulting from the anticipated passenger deluge during the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day.
Effective from October 25 to November 7, MARINA Advisory (MA) No. 2023-26, issued on October 18, suspends the strict adherence to authorized trip schedules between Matnog, Sorsogon, and Allen, Northern Samar, as specified in the Certificates of Public Convenience.
READ: Stick to departure, dwell times, Matnog-Allen carriers told
The local elections on October 30, and the observance of All Saints’ Day on November 1 and All Souls’ Day on November 2 are expected to translate to a deluge of passengers and cargoes/rolling cargoes in Matnog and Allen ports.
Under MA 2023-26, ships are permitted to increase their sailing frequencies and depart as soon as they reach their maximum authorized passenger and cargo capacities, as approved by the Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine Ports Authority.
The “first come, first served” policy should be strictly observed by shipowners during the loading of passengers and cargoes, irrespective of prior agreements with clients or shippers.
In cases where shipping services on the route are insufficient despite the measures under MA 2023-26, other shipping companies/operators may be authorized to deploy their vessels in order to ensure the immediate recovery of concerned areas from emergency, congestion, or similar circumstances.
All ships operating/calling at Matnog port and Allen port are instructed to adhere to designated port time stays. This will ensure proper berthing space allocation and prevent port congestion, with a maximum stay of three hours at Matnog port and two hours at Allen port.
Shipowners and operators should plan ahead when loading rolling cargoes and getting clearances from port authorities and other agencies before departing.
RELATED READ: ARTA implements circular addressing Matnog Port congestion
Matnog port, a crucial gateway from Luzon to the Visayas and Mindanao, often gets crowded, particularly during the holidays when travelers head home.
