DOTr releases alternative shipping lines to routes affected by Aleson suspension

Following the sinking of the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 on Monday, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday released a list of shipping lines authorized to serve affected routes. This action comes after the Aleson Shipping Line, owner of the sunken vessel, had its fleet grounded by the DOTr.

Route Adjustments and Alternatives

The DOTr instructed the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to allow shipping lines that have passed safety inspections to operate on Aleson’s routes during the suspension. The President directed this action to ensure continued safe passenger transport. Several routes are affected, with varying levels of alternative service available.

Specific Route Changes

Zamboanga City – Isabela City and vice versa: Montenegro Shipping lines, Inc. (MV Reina Justisya) and SRN Fast Seacraft Inc. (MC Weesam Express 2) will provide service.
Zamboanga City – Lamitan City and vice versa: Currently, no direct shipping service is available. Passengers are advised to take an alternative route through Zamboanga City-Isabela City, Basilan.
Zamboanga City – Siasi, Sulu and vice versa: Ever Lines (MV Ever Queen of Asia) will operate on this route.
Zamboanga City – Jolo, Sulu and vice versa: Montenegro Shipping Lines, Inc. (MV Maria Erlina and MV Maria Rebecca), Ibnerizam Shipping Lines (MV Honduras, MV Prince Majesty), and Ever Lines (MV Ever Queen of Asia) will provide service.
Zamboanga City – Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, and vice versa: Ever Lines (MV Ever Queen of Asia) will operate on this route.
Puluan, Dapitan City – Dumaguete City and vice versa: Montenegro Shipping Lines, Inc. (MV Reina De Luna, MV Maria Josefa, MV Ma. Helena), Archipelago Philippines Ferries Corp. (MV Fast Cat M5), Cokaliong Shipping Lines Inc. (MV Filipinas Dapitan, MV Filipinas Ozamis, MV Fil. Surigao del Norte), Lite Shipping Corporation (MV Lite Ferry Twelve), and Seem Sam Shipping Inc. (LCT 1028) will provide service.
Dumaguete City – Siquijor/Larena and vice versa: Montenegro Shipping Lines, Inc. (MV Maria Gloria, MV Reina Neptuna), Ocean Fast Ferries (MV Ocean Jet 888, MV Ocean Jet 388, MV Ocean Jet 188), and HS Star Marine Shipping (MV Star Crafts 6) will operate on this route.

Did You Know? The sinking of the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 resulted in 18 confirmed deaths and 10 individuals currently listed as missing.

A special permit for the Zamboanga-Lamitan City route is expected to be issued shortly, according to the DOTr.

Coast Guard Assistance

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is offering free passage on the BRP Capones patrol vessel for passengers traveling between Zamboanga and Lamitan City in Basilan. Priority will be given to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, and children, with a capacity of up to 80 passengers per one-way trip. Registered passengers will be transported to the vessel via PCG rescue truck and are required to present valid identification.

Expert Insight: The rapid response by the DOTr and PCG demonstrates a commitment to maintaining essential transportation links in the region following a maritime incident. The grounding of Aleson Shipping Lines and the swift authorization of alternative services highlight the importance of safety regulations and contingency planning in the maritime industry.

The DOTr stated that the PCG is prepared to offer free rides if shipping capacity proves insufficient.

Initial reports suggest a snapped lashing holding heavy cargo may have contributed to the sinking of the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3, according to Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso. Search and rescue operations continue, complicated by the presence of sharks in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the sinking of the M/V Trisha Kerstin 3?

Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso indicated a possible cause was the snapping of a lashing securing heavy cargo on the RORO vessel.

What routes are currently affected by the Aleson Shipping Line suspension?

The affected routes include Zamboanga City – Isabela City, Zamboanga City – Lamitan City, Zamboanga City – Siasi, Sulu, Zamboanga City – Jolo, Sulu, Zamboanga City – Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, Puluan, Dapitan City – Dumaguete City, and Dumaguete City – Siquijor/Larena.

Is there free transportation available for passengers between Zamboanga and Lamitan City?

Yes, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is offering free trips on the BRP Capones patrol vessel, prioritizing senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, and children, with a capacity of up to 80 passengers per trip.

As authorities continue search and rescue efforts, how might this incident influence future maritime safety protocols in the region?