Domestic shipping operators are supporting a proposal by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to mandate online ticketing for inter-island vessels to modernize passenger travel and curb overbooking.
The proposed policy, titled “Rules and Regulations on the Mandatory Implementation of the Shipping Online Ticketing System (SOTS) for Inter-Island Passenger Ships,” was presented during a recent public consultation in Batangas City.
The regulation covers all domestic passenger ships, including Roll-on/Roll-off (ROPAX) vessels and fast craft.
Montenegro Shipping Lines representatives welcomed the initiative as a “systematic step” in the right direction, noting the company has long advocated for full digitalization.
The system aims to replace traditional paper-based transactions with a secure digital platform to ensure real-time capacity monitoring and more accurate passenger manifests.
Island Water Ferries Dean Guinocor said the new circular would bolster the company’s existing “Book at Ease” program. Guinocor said the move helps achieve the goal of providing more efficient and comfortable travel for the public.
Beyond convenience, MARINA officials said the SOTS framework is intended to strengthen transparency and accountability. By requiring pre-booking and digital tracking, the agency expects to prevent fraud and the dangerous practice of overbooking vessels.
“The proposed policy is an important step to promote digitalization in the maritime transport sector and ensure a more efficient, transparent, and reliable ticketing system for passengers,” Domestic Shipping Service director Annabell Lagas said.
Once the circular is implemented, the agency expects a significant reduction in port queues. The transition to digital manifests is also highlighted as a critical safety upgrade, allowing authorities to verify passenger counts instantly before departure.
The modernization efforts come as the maritime industry seeks to integrate more user-friendly technology for the thousands of travelers who rely on inter-island transit daily.
