The Philippines to review safety protocols for onboard carriage of EVs

Following the disastrous fire aboard the Philippine ferry June Aster on September 9, in which at least 77 people lost their lives, two regional ferry operators in the Philippines - Montenegro Shipping Lines and Starhorse Shipping Lines – are reported to have introduced temporary bans on electric and hybrid vehicles (EVs and HEVs) aboard their ferries.

The Philippines’ Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has also issued an official statement saying that it supports the Department of Energy’s (DOE) initiative to develop clear, science-based standards for the safe carriage of electric and hybrid vehicles onboard domestic passenger vessels.

MARINA says it is working closely with the DOE, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to review existing safety protocols and establish appropriate requirements that will protect passengers, vessels, and crew while keeping pace with the growth of electric mobility.

The agency emphasises that the investigation into the MV June Aster fire (pictured, photo: PCG) is ongoing, and no final finding has established that the electric vehicle onboard caused the incident.

MARINA says it will continue to strengthen its safety regulations and protocols based on the findings of the investigation, technical assessments, and applicable international maritime safety standards.