Oil Loadings Suspended at CPC Black Sea Terminal After Tanker Attacks

Oil loading operations at the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) marine terminal near Novorossiysk, Russia, have been temporarily suspended after two crude oil tankers were reportedly attacked during loading operations in the Black Sea on July 19. The affected vessels were identified as ASIA and NISSOS IOS. According to the CPC, a fire broke out aboard the tanker ASIA following the incident but was successfully extinguished. Both vessels remained afloat, and the company reported that there were no injuries, fatalities, or oil spills involving CPC personnel or contractors. The consortium said loading operations have been suspended while authorities and terminal operators assess the situation. Kazakhstan's Ministry of Energy also confirmed that the terminal's Single Point Mooring facilities were not damaged, although oil loading will remain on hold pending further evaluation.

U.S. Gives Long-Overdue Recognition to Merchant Mariners | MARINO PH

The United States is giving greater recognition to its merchant mariners, acknowledging their vital role in keeping the country's economy, trade, and national security strong. For many years, merchant mariners have worked behind the scenes, transporting fuel, food, military supplies, and other essential cargo across the world. Despite their important role, many people were not fully aware of their contribution.

Sanctioned Oil Tanker Reported Leaking Oil Near Oman

A sanctioned oil tanker is believed to be leaking oil in a protected marine area near the coast of Oman, based on satellite images and expert analysis. The vessel, named Caroline Bezengi, was previously sanctioned by the European Union and the United Kingdom for transporting Russian oil products. According to ship tracking data, the tanker loaded Russian oil/ at the Russian port of Novorossiysk before starting its latest voyage. The ship last sent its public tracking signal on June 11 while sailing near the coast of Yemen. Since then, its exact movements have remained unknown.

Two More Filipino Seafarers from M/V MSC Elsa 3 Arrive Home Safely

Two more Filipino seafarers who served on board the M/V MSC Elsa 3 have safely returned to the Philippines, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). Their arrival marks another step in the government's ongoing efforts to bring home Filipino crew members affected by the incident involving the vessel. The returning seafarers were welcomed by representatives of the DMW and partner government agencies upon their arrival at the airport. They were provided with the necessary assistance and support as part of the government's continuing commitment to protect the welfare of overseas Filipino workers and seafarers.

PMMA Salighirang Class of 2026!

A total of 327 graduating midshipmen of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) officially embark on a new chapter as future maritime professionals and uniformed service officers. Led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during the commencement exercises held at the PMMA Complex in San Narciso, Zambales, the graduates represent a new generation of leaders committed to excellence, integrity, discipline, and dedicated service to the nation.

West Bay Colleges Honors Class of 2026 During 25th Maritime Recognition Rites

MUNTINLUPA CITY, Philippines — West Bay Colleges, Inc. successfully held its 25th Maritime Recognition Rites on July 17, 2026, at the West Bay College Auditorium, honoring the Maritime Class of 2026 as they completed their three-year classroom instruction and prepared to begin their shipboard training.

MARINO PH and COMPMAN Strengthen Nearly a Decade of Partnership

MARINO PH and COMPMAN have officially renewed their Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), reaffirming a partnership that has remained strong for nearly a decade. The signing represents another significant milestone in the long-standing collaboration between the two organizations, both of which share a common commitment to supporting the Filipino maritime workforce through education, professional development, and industry engagement. The renewed agreement underscores their dedication to working together in delivering initiatives that benefit aspiring seafarers, maritime professionals, and the wider maritime community while continuously adapting to the evolving demands of the global shipping industry.

Mariana Academy and MARINO PH Renew Partnership to Strengthen Support for Filipino Seafarers

Manila, Philippines – Mariana Academy of Maritime Studies, Inc. and MARINO PH officially renewed their partnership through a formal signing ceremony, reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing the professional growth, education, and welfare of Filipino seafarers. The renewed collaboration marks another milestone in the longstanding relationship between the two organizations, both of which continue to play significant roles in serving the Philippine maritime sector.

The International Code of Signals (ICS)

The International Code of Signals (ICS) is a standardized maritime communication system used by ships worldwide to exchange important information regardless of language. It uses signal flags, Morse code, and radio communications to ensure clear, safe, and effective communication between vessels and shore stations.

Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP)

The Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP) is a mandatory onboard emergency response plan required under MARPOL Annex I. It provides the crew with clear procedures and guidance for responding quickly and effectively to an actual or suspected oil pollution incident, helping minimize environmental damage and ensuring timely reporting to the appropriate authorities.

Types of Marks in the IALA Buoyage System

The International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) Buoyage System is an internationally recognized navigation system designed to help mariners navigate safely through coastal and inland waters. It standardizes the use of buoys, beacons, lights, and other navigational aids to indicate safe routes, hazards, and special areas. Although IALA operates under two buoyage regions (Region A and Region B), the system uses the same types of navigational marks worldwide, ensuring consistency and improving maritime safety.

COLREGs Rules 1–41 | Complete Guide for Seafarers

PART A – GENERAL Rule 1 – Application Defines where and to whom the COLREGs apply. The rules govern vessels navigating on the high seas and all waters connected to them that are navigable by seagoing vessels, unless local regulations specifically apply. Rule 2 – Responsibility States that every vessel, owner, master, and crew remain responsible for taking all necessary precautions to avoid collisions. Good seamanship and common sense must always prevail, even if it means departing from the rules in exceptional situations. Rule 3 – General Definitions Provides definitions used throughout the COLREGs, including terms such as vessel, power-driven vessel, sailing vessel, fishing vessel, seaplane, vessel not under command (NUC), vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver (RAM), vessel constrained by her draft (CBD), underway, making way, and restricted visibility.