South Africa Plans LNG Terminal to Strengthen East London Port Operations

South Africa is planning the development of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal at the Port of East London as part of efforts to improve the port’s competitiveness and expand its role in the country’s energy and maritime infrastructure. The proposed facility is expected to support LNG import activities and provide additional energy supply options for the region. The project forms part of broader initiatives to attract investment and improve the efficiency of South Africa’s port facilities. The Port of East London, located on the country’s eastern coast, handles various cargo operations and serves industries in the surrounding area.

Global Shipping Faces Slower Trade and Higher Costs as Disruptions Lift Freight Earnings

Global shipping is facing slower trade growth and rising transport costs as geopolitical conflicts and disruptions along major trade routes continue to affect vessel movements. UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) projects global merchandise trade growth to slow from about 4.7% in 2025 to between 1.5% and 2.5% in 2026, with uncertainty, higher energy costs and supply chain disruptions weighing on activity. Shipping markets, particularly the tanker sector, have recorded sharply higher freight earnings amid reduced vessel availability and longer or disrupted voyages. Industry data cited in recent market assessments showed very large crude carrier earnings on some Arabian Gulf-to-Asia routes reaching around $1 million per day in September. The increase has been linked to disruption around the Strait of Hormuz, higher risk costs and changes in global energy trade patterns.

U.S. authorities investigate suspected cyber breaches aboard two U.S.-bound vessels

The United States Coast Guard and Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating suspected cyber breaches involving two foreign-flagged commercial vessels bound for the United States. Joint Coast Guard and FBI teams boarded the vessels in the Gulf of Mexico on August 21 and August 24 after receiving indications that their computer networks had been compromised. The teams examined the vessels’ information technology and operational systems.

Turkish Shipowner and Crew File Complaint Over Alleged War Crimes in Ukraine Ship Attack

A Turkish shipowner and crew members have filed a complaint alleging possible war crimes following an attack on a commercial vessel linked to the conflict in Ukraine. The complaint seeks an investigation into the incident, with the claim that the attack caused harm to civilian maritime personnel and affected the safety of merchant shipping operations. According to reports, the legal action was submitted by parties connected to the affected vessel, requesting authorities to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine responsibility. The complaint alleges that the vessel was targeted during ongoing hostilities, raising concerns over the protection of civilian ships operating in conflict areas.

Maritime Community Gathers for Ecumenical Memorial Rites

The maritime community gathered at the Philippine Coast Guard National Headquarters in Manila on September 20, 2026, for the opening of the 31st National Seafarers’ Day and the 27th National Maritime Week.

TOMSP 2026 Concludes With Recognition of the Philippines’ Top 10 Maritime Students

The Search for the Ten Outstanding Maritime Students of the Philippines (TOMSP) 2026 concluded by honoring 10 students selected from 20 national finalists representing 14 maritime higher education institutions across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

AMOSUP Joins National Maritime Week 2026 and Day of the Seafarer Observance

The Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) joined the nationwide observance of National Maritime Week 2026 and the Day of the Seafarer through its annual commemorative gathering led by Dr. Conrado F. Oca.

IMOSTI Training and Development Successfully Concludes AI Workplace Learning Session in Parañaque City

IMOSTI Training and Development, with its commitment to “Paddle Your Career Forward,” successfully concluded its learning session titled “Faster, Smarter, Better: AI in the Workplace” on September 17, 2026, at the IMOSTI Conference Room in Parañaque City.

Parts of a Block

A block is an important deck fitting used in lifting, rigging, and cargo-handling operations onboard ships. It consists of several parts, including the sheave, cheek, pin, crown, head fitting, becket, and tail, each designed to support the safe movement and direction of ropes or wires under load.

Effect of weight Distribution on Ship Stability

Proper weight distribution is essential to ship stability. Even when the total weight remains the same, its location onboard can change the vessel’s center of gravity, trim, list, and stability. Correct cargo placement and weight management help maintain adequate stability, reduce excessive stresses, and ensure safer vessel operations at sea.

Types of Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are designed for different classes of fire, making proper selection essential for onboard safety. Common types include CO₂, dry powder, water, wet chemical, and foam extinguishers. Seafarers must know their correct applications, locations, and operating procedures to respond quickly and safely during a fire emergency at sea.

Common Types of Ropes

Ropes are essential equipment in shipboard operations, used for mooring, towing, lifting, rigging, cargo handling, and other deck activities. Different types of rope have specific properties, strengths, and limitations. Understanding the characteristics and proper applications of nylon, polyester, polypropylene, HMPE, wire rope, and Manila rope helps seafarers select the right rope for each operation and work safely onboard.