Following a rigorous series of safety inspections and verification processes by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), OSM Shipping Philippines, Inc. has successfully implemented a comprehensive set of corrective and preventive measures aboard the M/V Antonia 2. With these upgrades—spanning navigation, fire safety, emergency preparedness, and passenger welfare—the vessel has officially met stringent regulatory standards and is cleared to resume operations.
The safety overhaul was conducted to address compliance gaps identified during MARINA inspections, ensuring that the vessel operates under the highest standards of maritime safety.
Key safety and compliance upgrades implemented:
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Documentary and Operational Readiness: Critical ship plans and manuals—including the General Accommodation Plan, Fire Control Plan, Lifesaving Plan, and Stowage Plan—have been repaired, updated, properly posted, and made readily accessible to the crew. In addition, the Emergency Escape Manual has been provided on board, and revised ship plans and drawings have been submitted to MARINA for official approval.
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Navigation Excellence: Navigational safety has been significantly strengthened with the procurement of required large-scale nautical charts covering the vessel’s trading area, along with updated tide tables for navigating officers.
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Medical Emergency Preparedness: The vessel’s emergency medical response capabilities have been verified, with portable oxygen tanks and spine boards confirmed to be fully stocked, in good condition, and accessible.
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Enhanced Passenger Safety & Evacuation: To facilitate faster and safer evacuations, clear fire exit markings have been installed in both the VIP and air-conditioned cabins located on the lower deck.
During the inspection process, the MARINA Administrator strongly reminded the ship’s captain and officers of their ongoing responsibility to remain vigilant. Authorities emphasized the strict enforcement of safety protocols—including the mandatory airing of safety briefing videos, maintaining the correct placement and verified condition of life vests, and conducting regular checks to ensure secure cargo monitoring throughout every voyage.
MARINA noted that these stringent verifications form part of an ongoing regulatory initiative to ensure that compliance is not merely a formality on paper, but a tangible, continuously maintained practice on board every vessel.
Out of a total fleet of 34 vessels belonging to Aleson Shipping Lines, Inc. (ASLI), the M/V Antonia 2 is currently the sole vessel in active operation as compliance checks and safety enhancements continue across the broader fleet.
