It has been observed that several shipping companies are allowing their vessels to continue operations which were found rat infested and without deratization papers.

In view of this, attention to the following provisions of the existing Quarantine rules and regulations is hereby invited:

"Sec. 4          Sanitary Regulations for Interisland Vessels - ". . . IT SHALL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE AGENTS OR MASTERS OF VESSELS TO REQUEST AND MAKE NECESSARY ARRANGEMENT FOR THE FUMIGATION AND THEIR VESSELS ONCE EVERY SIX MONTHS."

Sec. 30e       Rat Inspection of vessels - "NO VESSEL SHALL BE ALLOWED TO LEAVE THE PORT UNLESS ITS DERATIZATION PAPERS ARE IN ORDER."

You are hereby reminded that violation of the above provisions of law carries a penalty of a fine of not more than two thousand pesos or by imprisonment of not more than one year as provided for under Sec. 11 of RA 123.

Compliance by all concerned is hereby enjoined.

Adopted: 23 June 1986

(SGD.) B. B. SARENAS, M.D., M.P.H.
Officer-In-Charge

Effective: 23 June 1986