The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has issued a work stoppage order against six vessels operated by Atienza Interisland Ferries Inc. after labor inspectors found violations of occupational safety and health standards.
The order, issued by the DOLE National Capital Region (NCR), followed a labor inspection conducted on October 10, 2026, aboard the MV September Tulips, which was berthed at Navotas Fish Port in Navotas City.
According to the order, the inspection found that the company lacked a required occupational safety and health (OSH) program and a designated safety officer.
The six vessels covered by the order are the MV November Cattleya, MV December Poinsettia, MV September Tulips, MV October Lavender, MC Star San Carlos, and MV May Lillies.
The company was directed to address the identified deficiencies before the affected vessels can resume operations.
DOLE also set a compliance deadline of October 23, with possible penalties for failure to comply with the requirements, according to reports.
The work stoppage order comes amid DOLE's investigation into the labor and safety practices of Atienza Interisland Ferries following the deadly fire aboard the M/V June Aster off Coron, Palawan, on September 9, 2026.
The incident killed 77 passengers and crew members, prompting authorities to examine the vessel operator's compliance with labor laws and workplace safety regulations.
During a DOLE inquiry on October 8, investigators reported several alleged violations of general labor standards, including underpayment of wages and nonpayment of overtime, holiday, rest-day and night-shift differential pay, as well as the withholding of service incentive leave benefits.
The investigation also identified alleged deficiencies in occupational safety and health compliance, including the absence of required safety programs, emergency response plans, safety committees and trained safety officers. Inspectors also cited insufficient personal protective equipment and the failure to submit mandatory OSH reports.
DOLE Secretary Francis Tolentino previously stressed the importance of enforcing labor and safety standards to protect workers and passengers and prevent similar tragedies.
