Davao City Councilor Proposes Stricter Requirements for Boat Operators' Business Permits
Councilor Ralph Abella has introduced a significant ordinance that would require boat operators to submit documents issued by the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) before the Davao City government can issue business permits. This proposal comes amid growing public safety concerns following several maritime incidents in the country, including the recent capsizing of the motorbanca MBCA Amejara in the Davao Gulf on January 19, 2026.
Addressing Safety Gaps in Maritime Operations
During his privilege speech at the Sangguniang Panlungsod on February 3, 2026, Councilor Abella emphasized that the City Government currently lacks a clear checklist of what maritime documents should be required before issuing business permits to boat operators. He stated in Cebuano: "Apan isip City Government, wala kita'y klaro nga checklist kung unsa gyud nga maritime documents ang atong angay pangayoon before kita mohatag og business permit sa mga boat operators."
Abella explained that under existing Marina rules, which are enforced by the PCG, motorized passenger boats are classified as regulated public vessels. These vessels must meet comprehensive requirements covering three key areas:
- The operator's qualifications and authorization
- The vessel's seaworthiness and compliance standards
- The boat captain's valid license and credentials
The proposed ordinance aims to establish Davao City as a "final safety checkpoint" by ensuring all operators present valid Marina and PCG documentation before receiving business permits. Abella clarified that this measure does not seek to replace or duplicate existing Marina or PCG mandates but rather provides an additional layer of protection for Davao City residents.
Council Support and Procedural Progress
The councilor's speech was immediately referred to the appropriate committee for first reading. Councilor Jopet Baluran, who chairs the Committee on Transportation, expressed strong support for the proposal and moved for Abella's privilege speech to be considered as the first reading of the ordinance.
Councilor Al-Ryan Alejandre raised an important consideration regarding potential double permitting issues, noting that many boats operating at Santa Ana Wharf originate from the Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos) or pass through the city. He emphasized the need for clarity to avoid operators requiring two separate business permits, stating in Cebuano: "Kung ing ana well dili man pod gyud pwede duh ang business permit, and I think we should be clear on that regard."
Despite this concern, Alejandre expressed full support for the ordinance, acknowledging that requiring Marina and PCG documents represents an effective method to protect passengers.
Proposed Documentation Requirements
The ordinance outlines specific documentation that boat operators would need to submit to obtain business permits:
MARINA-issued documents would include:
- Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) or Special Permit to Operate (SPO)
- Certificate of Vessel Registry
- Document of Compliance or Safety Compliance Certificate
- Complete list of vessels under the operator's management
- Valid MARINA license for the boat captain
PCG documents would encompass:
- Certificate of Inspection (COI) proving vessel seaworthiness
- Passenger capacity approval documentation
- Safety equipment compliance certification
- The latest Clearance to Sail authorization
- Verified crew list with current credentials
Additional required submissions would consist of:
- Detailed operator profile and business information
- Valid passenger insurance policy documentation
- Sample passenger manifest for operational review
- Comprehensive route map showing planned voyages
Enforcement and Penalty Provisions
The proposed ordinance establishes clear consequences for noncompliance. Operators who fail to provide required documents, submit falsified papers, or operate with expired permits could face:
- Denial of initial business permit applications
- Suspension of existing business permits
- Revocation of business permits for serious violations
Noncompliant operators would be subject to a ₱5,000 fine and could be referred to Marina and PCG authorities for further investigation and potential additional penalties. This enforcement mechanism aims to create a robust system that prioritizes passenger safety while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Context of Current Transportation Infrastructure
This regulatory proposal comes at a time when barge services remain the primary transportation link between Davao City and the Island Garden City of Samal. These vessels carry significant numbers of passengers daily, facilitating the movement of residents and travelers while supporting economic growth between the two islands. The Davao-Samal Bridge, officially called the Samal Island-Davao City (SIDC) Connector, continues under construction, making maritime transportation particularly crucial during this interim period.
The proposed ordinance represents a proactive approach to maritime safety regulation, seeking to prevent future incidents through enhanced documentation requirements and closer coordination between local government and national maritime authorities.
