Manila: Getting ships registered and able to trade in the Philippines has long been a cumbersome process, but that looks set to change finally.
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has launched a system that might cut registration time from the current 52 days to just nine.
MARINA administrator Maximo Q. Mejia said the Enhanced Special Processing Window – Express Lane (E-SPWEL) uses a single window for simultaneous processing of ship documents and allowing vessels to engage in domestic trade, making the transaction faster and easier.
“At times the entire process reaches up to 90 days, but it’s more on imported boats. What we are saying is maybe would could apply it to all. It should include local building," Pedro Aguilar, executive director of the Philippine Interisland Shipping Association, told reporters.
"This new system encourages modernization and fast-track processing of our import documents at the same time be globally competitive. But more important if the new ships are here we can assure our constituents a better and safer means of transportation in maritime," Christopher Pastrana, president of Philippines RORO Operators Association said.
The system will be on pilot run at the MARINA central office in Manila until July 30. [14/03/14]
