Business · Philippines Bureau
Marina suspends safety certificate for MV Peñafrancia after capsizing
The Maritime Industry Authority has revoked the passenger safety certification of MV Virgen de Peñafrancia II following a listing incident at a Quezon port that injured three passengers.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) has suspended the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate of MV Virgen de Peñafrancia II after the vessel listed to its right side at the Port of Real in Quezon on Friday.
Three passengers sustained injuries in the incident, prompting immediate regulatory action by the maritime regulator. The suspension effectively prohibits the vessel from carrying passengers until it undergoes inspection and remedies the safety deficiencies identified during the incident.
The listing of the passenger vessel raises concerns about the ship's stability and maintenance standards. Marina's action reflects heightened scrutiny of maritime safety in Philippine waters, where passenger ferries serve as vital transportation links between islands.
The incident marks another reminder of safety challenges in the Philippine shipping sector. Vessel operators are required to maintain current safety certifications and adhere to international maritime protocols to ensure passenger protection during voyages.
Marina is expected to conduct a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the capsizing before determining whether the vessel may resume operations.