Notice is hereby given that the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) shall strictly implement the provisions of Republic Act No. 9049 (RA No. 9049) relative to transportation by water. This is in compliance with Department Order No. 2018-011 issued 10 May 2018 by the Department of Transportation.

Section 3 (5) of RA No. 9049, otherwise known as œAn Act Granting Monthly Gratuity and Privileges to an Awardee of the Medal of Valor, Providing Funds therefor, and for Other purposes , mandates that a Medal of Valor awardee, his/her widow/widower and/or dependents, as the case may be, shall be entitled to a twenty percent (20%) discount on fare for sea travel, including advanced booking, from all entities and establishments, whether public or private, relative to utilization of transportation services anywhere in the country.

In view thereof, all concerned are strictly enjoined to be mindful of the following:

1. The  provisions of  RA  No.  9049  shall also  apply  to  the  Medal of  Valor awardees under Presidential Decree No. 1687 who have since been integrated to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

2. For the availment of benefits and privileges under this Order, the Medal of Valor awardee, his/her widow/widower and/or dependents, as the case may be, shall present as proof of eligibility, a valid and original Medal of Valor Identification Card issued by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) which shall be honored nationwide.

3. Any  person  who  shall  deny  an  awardee,  his/her  widow/widower and/or dependents or beneficiaries of the privileges and benefits due him/her/them shall be placed under the penalties imposed under RA No. 9049.

This MARINA Advisory shall take effect immediately after its publication once in a newspaper of general circulation.