Permanent conversion moves a vessel from a foreign flag to the Philippine ship registry. V. Faytaren Shipping Agency helps owners through the process, preparing documents and following the filings through the government agencies involved until the vessel is registered.
What our Philippine flag registry service covers
Owners bring vessels under the Philippine flag for different reasons, often to trade in domestic waters on a permanent basis. Whatever the reason, the change involves more than paperwork with one office. The vessel has to be cleared for importation, meet registration requirements, and pass the inspections and approvals that come with Philippine registry.
The process typically involves the Maritime Industry Authority, the Bureau of Customs and other agencies, each with its own forms and timelines. Requirements depend on the vessel's type, age and intended trade, and they are updated from time to time, so we always check the current rules for each case before advising.
Our role is to keep the process moving. We prepare the documents, file them in the right order, follow up with each office, and tell you plainly what is outstanding. With decades of experience at Philippine ports, we know where these applications usually slow down and how to keep them on track.
What we handle
- Review of vessel documents and conversion requirements
- Preparing applications and supporting documents
- Filings with MARINA, the Bureau of Customs and other agencies
- Importation clearance support for the vessel
- Coordination of inspections and approvals
- Regular status updates to owners
- Port agency during the conversion period
- Advice based on current requirements for your case
How it works
Assessment
Send the vessel's current documents and your plans so we can map the requirements.
Preparation
We compile the applications and supporting documents with you.
Filing and follow-up
We file with each agency in sequence and follow up until approvals are issued.
Registration
The vessel is entered in the Philippine registry and we hand over the documents.
Ports where we provide this service
Our home port is Batangas, including the government pier and the private terminals around Batangas Bay. We also serve these Philippine ports:
- Batangas
- Manila
- Subic
- Bataan
- Quezon
- La Union
- Cagayan
- Cebu
- Samar
- Leyte
- Davao
See all ports and Batangas terminals
Why principals choose V. Faytaren Shipping Agency
We have worked at the Port of Batangas since 1976. The agency is registered with the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), holds a Philippine Ports Authority permit to operate as ship's agent, is accredited by the Bureau of Customs and is a member of the Philippine Ship Agents Association. Our day-to-day working relationships with Customs, Immigration, Quarantine, the Coast Guard, the pilots and the terminals are what keep your vessel moving.
View our permits and accreditation
Frequently asked questions
What is permanent conversion to Philippine flag?
It is the process of moving a foreign-flagged vessel onto the Philippine ship registry so it can operate as a Philippine vessel.
Which agencies handle Philippine ship registration?
The Maritime Industry Authority handles registration, and the Bureau of Customs and other agencies are usually involved in clearing the vessel.
How long does the process take?
It depends on the vessel and how complete the documents are. We give you a realistic timeline after reviewing your case.
Is this different from temporary conversion?
Yes. Temporary conversion lets a foreign vessel trade domestically for a period and then return to foreign status. Permanent conversion changes the vessel's flag to Philippine registry.
