THE PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD (PCG), a unit under the Department of Transportation (DoTr), published on Wednesday a memorandum setting the harbour speed limit and other rules for vessels at the busy Cebu-Mactan Channel, with corresponding penalties of up to P100,000. The memo, which takes effect 15 days from publication, is intended “to enhance the safety of navigation, efficiency of vessel traffic and the protection of marine environment.” The speed limit is set at eight knots and a “no overtaking” policy will be implemented in consideration of the “volume of traffic and constricted width of the channel.” Exceptions to the rule must have prior approval from the PCG. For the first offense, violators will be fined P50,000 “each for the Captain/Master/Patron and Ship Owners or Operators.” A second offense would cost P100,000 each, and the third violation would lead to the suspension of license and non-issuance of berthing permit or port clearance. The PCG’s Central Visayas District is tasked to designate vessels for monitoring as well as rule on all reported violations.

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