Merfolk Shipping Inc.

05/11/2025

Ambassador of Japan Visits M/V KYOWA STORK

Merfolk Shipping Inc. is proud to share that The Kaselehlie Press recently featured the visit of Ambassador Kagomiya of Japan to M/V KYOWA STORK, chartered by Kyowa Shipping Co., Ltd., at Pohnpei Port, Federated States of Micronesia.

The Ambassador was warmly welcomed onboard by Capt. Enrico D. V. Revuelta and his dedicated crew, who provided an overview of the vessel’s operations and cargo handling activities.

This visit underscores the strong partnership between Japan and the Federated States of Micronesia, while also highlighting the professionalism, teamwork, and dedication of our Filipino seafarers proudly deployed by Merfolk Shipping Inc.

Proudly represented by MERFOLK SHIPPING INC.

20/09/2025

SEPTEMBER 21 RALLY AGAINST CORRUPTION

Today we stand with our crew as they raise their voices for the truth and integrity
Together, we say “NO TO CORRUPTION”

30/07/2025

SUBJECT: EARTHQUAKE IN RUSSIA – POSSIBLE TSUNAMI IMPACT IN JAPAN

At approximately 08:25 JST, 30 July 2025, a magnitude 8.7–8.8 earthquake struck off the Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia, at a depth of ~19 km. Following this event, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued a Tsunami Advisory for Japan’s northern and Pacific coastal regions.

Current Situation:
• First wave (~30 cm) recorded at Nemuro, Hokkaido shortly after the quake.
• Tsunami waves of 1–3 meters are projected for parts of Hokkaido, Tohoku, and eastern Honshu.
• Evacuation orders have been issued for coastal areas by Japanese authorities.

INSTRUCTIONS TO ALL VESSELS:
1. Maintain heightened watch and monitor official broadcasts from JMA, Japan Coast Guard, and Port Authorities.
2. For vessels in port:
• Secure all moorings.
• Prepare main engines and ship systems for immediate departure if instructed by port authorities.
3. For vessels at sea:
• Avoid approaching shallow waters, coastal approaches, and harbor entrances.
• Maintain safe distance from shoreline and remain vigilant for unusual sea conditions.
4. Delay port entries until the “All Clear” is officially announced by JMA/Port Authorities.
5. Ensure crew readiness for emergency actions, including possible evacuation drills.

DURATION OF RISK:

Tsunami activity may persist for several hours with multiple waves expected. Do not consider the danger over after the first wave.

A tsunami warning of up to 3 meters has been issued along Japan's Pacific coast. Get away from the coast ASAP and evacuate to higher place.
Tsunami precautions: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/backstories/3630/

03/01/2025

DECK AND ENGINE WATCH KEEPERS

Use of Personal Devices in the Workplace
To ensure the safety and operational integrity of the vessel, it is strictly prohibited to use the internet, social media, play music, watch videos, or engage in gaming while performing duties in the bridge and engine room. Such activities distract from critical tasks, compromise situational awareness, and can lead to accidents or operational errors. All crew members are expected to remain fully focused on their responsibilities and adhere to this policy at all times.

Compliance with this directive is mandatory and will be monitored. Any violations will be addressed as per company regulations.

The prohibition on distractions, such as using personal devices while on duty, is supported by international maritime regulations and guidelines aimed at ensuring safety at sea. Here are the key connections:

1. SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Convention

Chapter V (Safety of Navigation): This chapter requires the master and crew to maintain proper watchkeeping practices, including situational awareness, which is incompatible with distractions like personal device usage.

Regulation 34-1 (Master’s responsibility and overriding authority): Emphasizes the master’s responsibility to ensure the safety of the ship, crew, and environment, which includes implementing measures like prohibiting distractions during critical operations.

2. STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping)

Regulation VIII/2 (Watchkeeping Arrangements): Mandates that watchkeepers must maintain vigilance to avoid accidents. The STCW Code (Part A, Section A-VIII/2) requires officers to ensure continuous situational awareness.

Distractions from mobile devices conflict with the principles outlined in the STCW Code regarding watchkeeping efficiency.

3. ISM (International Safety Management) Code

Section 6 (Resources and Personnel): Requires companies to ensure that personnel have the necessary competence and discipline to perform their duties safely. Prohibiting distractions is a measure to meet this standard.

Section 8 (Emergency Preparedness): Emphasizes the importance of being ready to respond to emergencies, which requires undivided attention during operations.

4. Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006

Regulation 2.3 (Hours of Work and Rest): Ensures that crew members are well-rested and focused during duty hours. Personal device usage that disrupts situational awareness contravenes the intent of this regulation.

5. Flag State and Port State Control

Many flag states adopt and enforce policies aligned with IMO conventions and STCW requirements. Non-compliance with proper watchkeeping standards could lead to detentions or fines under port state control inspections.

Practical Implications:

Violating these provisions by allowing distractions during critical operations could lead to accidents, loss of life, environmental damage, and severe penalties for the company, master, and crew under maritime law.

CAPT. RDF

24/11/2024

The 2023 U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Port State Control (PSC) Annual Report highlighted an increase in detainable deficiencies, reflecting a growing focus on maritime safety, environmental protection, and compliance with international conventions. Key findings include:

1. Increased Detention Rate: The detention rate rose to 1.22%, up from 0.89% in 2022, with 101 vessels detained after 8,278 SOLAS safety exams. Despite fewer exams, deficiencies related to safety, environmental, and security issues led to more detentions.

2. Top Deficiency Categories:

Fire Safety: Fire-related issues, such as excessive oil accumulation, malfunctioning detection systems, and inadequate firefighting measures, topped the list for the third consecutive year.

Safety Management Systems (SMS): There was a significant increase in SMS deficiencies, largely due to poor maintenance and failure to address known nonconformities.

Lifesaving Appliances: Common issues included malfunctioning or missing rescue and lifeboats, as well as improper installations.

ISPS Code Violations: Security deficiencies were noted, including poor access control and unmonitored restricted areas.

MARPOL Annex I Compliance: While deficiencies in oil filtering and pumping systems decreased, unapproved modifications remained a concern.

3. Ballast Water Management (BWM): Compliance improved slightly with fewer deficiencies, though challenges persisted with inoperable systems and non-reporting of issues. Enhanced Examination Programs (EEP) contributed positively to identifying non-compliance in previous years.

4. QUALSHIP 21 Program: The initiative for recognizing quality vessels ended 2023 with over 5,000 enrolled ships. Some flag states gained or lost eligibility based on their performance.

These findings emphasize the importance of robust safety and compliance measures aboard vessels. The USCG continues to urge shipping companies to proactively address deficiencies and ensure readiness before entering U.S. ports. For more details, you can refer to the full PSC Annual Report for 2023 on the USCG's website or maritime resources.

01/11/2024

The ship was transformed into a halloween looks.Dressed up with diffrent costumes , and crew really got into it with their costumes—there was a zombie, a ghost, and even a classic mummy!

The highlight was definitely the costume contest. Everyone put so much effort into their outfits,

Please comment down below in the picture of your choice.👇👇👇👇

Disclaimer l: for entertainment purposes all customes is from used materials

Capt. Rdf

30/10/2024

When a customer is familiarizing themselves with a vessel for their cargo, they're typically conducting an inspection or review to ensure the ship meets specific standards and is suitable for safely transporting their goods. This process may include:

1. Vessel Suitability: Checking if the vessel’s size, structure, and features align with the cargo’s requirements. For example, if transporting hazardous or temperature-sensitive goods, the vessel may need specialized compartments.

2. Safety Checks: Reviewing the ship's safety equipment and procedures to ensure it complies with relevant safety regulations and standards, like SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea).

3. Hygiene Inspections: Ensuring that the vessel is clean and free from contaminants that could harm sensitive or perishable cargoes, especially for food or pharmaceuticals.

4. Crew Competency: Verifying the qualifications and experience of the crew to handle specific cargo types. Some cargo, like chemicals, requires trained personnel.

5. Document Verification: Reviewing certificates and maintenance records to confirm the vessel is up-to-date with inspections, licenses, and seaworthiness.

This familiarization step is essential for risk management, helping ensure the safe and efficient transport of goods.

Capt. RDF