M/V Antonia 2 of Aleson Shipping returns to service after corrective, safety compliance  

M/V Antonia 2, the only operating vessel out 34-vessel fleet of Al Shipping Lines Inc., is back in service following the implementation of corrective measures and safety compliance assessments, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) announced.

While M/V Antonia 2 returns to service, MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan emphasized to boat operator Aleson Shiping that safety is non-negotiable.

Only M/V Antonia 2 is currently operating out of ASLI’s 34-vessel fleet operating in eight routes within the region. It may be recalled that the Aleson fleet has been suspended by MARINA for almost six months now, first ever in the country’s maritime history.

“The return to service of M/V Antonia 2 is not a license to relax. Safety must be demonstrated, sustained, and observed in every voyage. We will not allow economic pressure to dictate a lower safety standard. Our responsibility is to protect lives, and that responsibility is non-negotiable.”

The return of M/V Antonia 2 comes amid continued disruption in shipping services due to the prolonged unavailability of a significant number of operating ships in the region, affecting the movement of passengers, cargo, and commodities.

With reduced shipping capacity, the movement and availability of goods have also been adversely affected, with some commodities and products recording substantial price increases, reportedly doubling the rates, with little or no supply of goods and commodities in some areas.

The agency continues to assess the fleet on a vessel-by-vessel, compliance-based approach, requiring corrective actions to be implemented, documented, and verified before a vessel is allowed to operate.

Safety at all times

The agency will continue to conduct a series of inspections and verifications as necessary to ensure that corrective measures are not merely documented, but effectively implemented and sustained.

MARINA recognizes the need to restore shipping capacity and minimize the impact of reduced maritime services on passengers, businesses, and the movement of commodities. But this must be achieved without compromising the safety of those who depend on maritime transportation.

With this development, MARINA’s message remains firm: Shipping services must be restored—but never at the cost of safety.