Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Welcome to our Maritime FAQ page. Here, you'll find clear answers to the most commonly asked questions about our services, operations, compliance, and industry practices. Whether you're a shipping partner, crew member, or stakeholder in the maritime sector, this resource is designed to support your needs and clarify key aspects of our operations. If your question isn’t covered here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team directly.
Our head office is located at 2nd Floor, T.M. Kalaw Center, 667 T.M. Kalaw Avenue, Ermita, Manila, and our Cebu branch office is at LDM Building, MJ Cuenco Avenue Corner Legaspi Street, 6000 Cebu City.
Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Plan Approval and Classification Services
As an integral part of its classification services, the Maritime Authority for Classification Services (MACS) shall undertake a detailed technical review and approval of ship plans and specifications/drawings. This ensures that the design—covering, but not limited to the following elements—meets the requirements prescribed under the approved class rules, and considers the vessel's intended notation:
1. Scope of Plan Approval
The technical review shall include, but is not limited to:
i. Hull – Covering ship structures including structural fire protection, stability, and watertight integrity.
ii. Lifting Equipment and Cargo Gears – Ensuring compliance with applicable safety and structural standards.
iii. Piping Systems and Arrangements – Reviewing system layout, pressure containment, and safety measures.
iv. Machinery, Equipment, and Related Systems – Ensuring functionality, reliability, and regulatory compliance.
v. Electrical and Control Systems – Including power generation, distribution, automation, and control safety systems.
2. Applicability of Plan Approval
The plan approval process applies to:
i. New Vessel Construction – Evaluation and approval of all plans required for building new ships.
ii. Existing Ships Entering Class – Review of vessels transferring into class from other registries or classifications.
iii. Conversions, Alterations, and Modifications – Assessment and approval of changes impacting the vessel’s structure or systems.
Additional Technical Evaluations and Surveys
MACS also conducts comprehensive assessments as part of its classification and statutory services:
Load Line Assignment – Evaluation of the vessel’s maximum safe loading capacity.
Tonnage Measurement – Accurate calculation of the vessel’s gross and net tonnage in compliance with applicable conventions.
Intact and Damage Stability Assessment – Verification of vessel stability under both intact and damaged conditions.
Hull Surveys – Inspection of the hull’s structural components, including plating, framing, and underwater areas, to identify any deterioration or damage.
Machinery Surveys – Examination of propulsion and auxiliary machinery to ensure efficiency, safety, and regulatory compliance.
Electrical Surveys – Assessment of onboard electrical systems for safe operation, reliability, and compliance with classification and statutory standards.
You may download the classification form and submit your application through our official email, or directly contact our main office. A PRS representative will guide you through the process, including document requirements, scheduling, and fees.
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Yes, PRS is accredited by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), the Philippine government agency responsible for regulating and promoting the maritime industry. This accreditation authorizes PRS to perform various statutory services and certifications on behalf of the Philippine flag.
Yes, PRS is certified by ABS Quality Evaluations (ABS QE) for ISO 9001:2015. This certification demonstrates PRS’s commitment to implementing a robust quality management system and maintaining international standards in all areas of its operations.
