The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has started operating three new crew change hubs in the ports of Zamboanga, Iloilo and Puerto Princesa in Palawan.
With the additional crew change hubs, the Philippines now has nine such hubs joining the Manila South Harbor; Port Capinpin in Orion, Bataan; Sasa Wharf in Davao; and Batangas, under the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA). The other two crew change hubs are located in Subic and Cebu.
The country introduced the crew change hubs to process the documents needed to facilitate the movement of both on-signers and off-signers amid the pandemic, recognizing the vital contribution of seafarers to the country’s economy.
The establishment of crew change hubs across the country is part of the measures adopted to keep maritime operations ongoing despite the strict health protocols being enforced due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Arthur Tugade, transportation secretary, welcomed the activation of the new crew change hubs, stressing that the DOTr maritime sector and other involved government agencies remain firm in their commitment to make crew changes as efficient as possible while upholding the health and safety of seafarers, especially Filipino mariners.
“It takes a whole maritime approach to make crew changes possible in the country. The various government agencies and the stakeholders that are involved remain firm in their strong and active participation to ensure the continuous operation of these crew change hubs, for our maritime industry champions: our Filipino seafarers,” Tugade said.
Under the massive Build, Build, Build program, DOTr, together with PPA, completed the construction and rehabilitation of more than 450 seaport projects across the country, while more than 100 projects are under construction.
PPA has spent about P20 billion for completion of 240 port projects in the last five years.
These development projects are vital in enhancing interisland connectivity and mobility, and in strengthening the economic growth of provinces and municipalities, DOTr said. – Myla Iglesias
