Domestic shipping operators have expressed support for the proposed mandatory online ticketing system aimed at enhancing services for inter-island passengers.
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) recently conducted a public consultation in Batangas City on the proposed Memorandum Circular titled “Rules and Regulations on the Mandatory Implementation of the Shipping Online Ticketing System (SOTS) for Inter-Island Passenger Ships.”
According to MARINA, Montenegro Shipping Lines Inc. described the proposed measure as a step in the right direction, noting that the adoption of a fully digital ticketing platform has long been part of its modernization thrust.
Dean Guinocor of Island Water Ferries said the circular would reinforce the company’s existing “Book at Ease” platform. He added that full implementation would enhance operational efficiency and provide passengers with a more seamless and comfortable voyage experience.
The proposed system will cover all domestic inter-island passenger vessels, including Roll-on/Roll-off Passenger (RoPax) vessels, high-speed craft, and other passenger-carrying ships engaged in coastwise trade.
Under the draft circular, all shipping companies will be required to adopt the SOTS as their official ticketing platform. The measure forms part of the sector’s broader digital transformation agenda and is intended to curb overbooking by aligning ticket sales with certified vessel passenger capacity.
Annabell Lagas, director of MARINA’s Domestic Shipping Service (DSS), said the online ticketing system is a key policy initiative to advance digitalization across the domestic fleet and promote transparency in passenger ticket issuance.
Once implemented, the SOTS is expected to decongest passenger terminals, provide real-time monitoring of vessel capacity through a digital passenger manifest, and further enhance safety and regulatory compliance in inter-island operations.
