PISA files graft raps vs MARINA over LCT passenger vessel approval

The Philippine Interisland Shipping Association (PISA) has filed a complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman against Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) officials.

The complaint alleges that MARINA officials violated the Anti-Graft Law, the Code of Conduct for Public Officials, and the Domestic Shipping Act by approving Landing Craft Tank (LCT) barges to carry passengers.

PISA claims a MARINA advisory issued in February 2025 legalized the operation of these cargo-type LCT barges as passenger ships, despite existing regulations prohibiting such conversions.

The association emphasizes that LCTs are designed for cargo, not passengers, and their use for transporting people undermines safety standards, including those under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and MARINA's own circulars.