DOTC to check captains' licenses

The Department of Transportation and Communication will soon check the licenses of the ship captains of all domestic vessels pursuant to orders given by President Gloria Arroyo.

This after one of the findings of the Board of Marine Inquiry that the M/T Solar I, which caused the oil spill in Guimaras Island, was manned by a ship captain with an expired license.

The extensive review to be conducted by the Maritime Industry Authority of the more than 10,000 ship captains nationwide was ordered to take effect as soon as possible.

License papers of seafarers are renewable every four years.

There are over 300 tankers operating within Philippine seas, and some 5,000 of the other types of ships and vessels. - Ferliza C. Contratista