Notice is hereby given that the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), pursuant to the provisions of Executive Order No. 125, as amended, and the Public Service Act, as amended, shall require domestic shipping companies to install and use monitoring cameras on board passenger-carrying vessels of 500 GT and above, operating in the domestic trade. This is aimed at enhancing the overall safety of navigation in the domestic waters by ensuring that all passenger-carrying ships are manned by competent crew at all times during navigation and by providing vital information in the investigation of maritime accidents/incidents.

I
Coverage
All Philippine-registered passenger-carrying and passenger RORO vessels of 500 GT and above, operating in the domestic trade.

II
Specifications and Requirements
Detailed specifications of the monitoring cameras and its accessories are the following:

1. Digital Camera - to be placed in the navigational room (bridge/cargo holds)
   

   - either black/white or colored
   - with audio
   - with wide angle lens to cover the entire area of the ship's bridge/cargo hold
   - can produce clear pictures even with minimal light/illumination or with infra red features for night vision
   - capable of displaying actual date and time

2. TV Monitor - to be put in any area in the ship that is the most accessible for public viewing
   

   - Either black and white or colored
   - At least 14"

3. Video Recorder - to be placed in an "orange canister/box"
   

   - Minimum continuous playing/recording time shall be equal to the round trip in the ship's franchised route link
   - Capable of recording actual time and date

4. Video Tape
   

   - Length shall be equal to the recording/playing time required herein
   - Re-usable

5. Orange Canister/Box - to be placed in a specially made inflatable raft with automatic release mechanism
   

   - Materials to remain intact and in good condition even when exposed to sea water, fire, explosion, extreme pressure or other incidents/elements
   - With security lock (only authorized personnel can open)

6. Automatic Back-up Power Supply - for continuous playing/recording even during power interruption/failure.

III
Schedule of Compliance

1. By 01 July 1999, the domestic shipping operators of the vessels covered shall give notice to MARINA that the bridge monitoring camera and its accessories are ready for inspection by MARINA.
   
   
2. By 01 October 1999, All concerned domestic shipping operators of vessels covered should have the bridge monitoring cameras and their accessories approved by MARINA. Within three (3) months from the notice of readiness, MARINA shall conduct the necessary inspection and verification prior to its approval.
   
   
3. By 31 December 1999, all concerned domestic shipping operators of passenger RORO vessels covered should have the cargo hold monitoring cameras and their accessories approved by MARINA. Within three (3) months from the notice of readiness, MARINA shall conduct the necessary inspection and verification prior to its approval.

IV
Implementing Circular
The MARINA shall subsequently issue the pertinent Memorandum Circular for the implementation of this requirement.

Please be guided accordingly.

Adopted: 9 Feb. 1999

(SGD.) AGUSTIN R. BENGZON
Administrator