The lack of financial resources to secure technologically-improved hull materials is a major challenge to boat operators and associations of Iloilo and Guimaras that have been told to change their wooden-hulled boats to either aluminum, steel or fiberglass. Despite this, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) is not suspending or revoking its order phasing out wooden-hulled passenger ships and boats. During a workshop held as an offshoot of the Aug. 3 capsizing of three motorboats at the Iloilo Strait, MARINA OIC administrator Vice Admiral Narciso Vingson Jr. stressed the importance of upholding maritime safety and promoting the comfort of the riding public through the use of modern boats. The workshop held in Guimaras provided an opportunity for local boat associations to raise their concerns.

Major challenge: boat operators: no money for modern hulls. (2019, August 30). Panay News, pp. 1, 14.