Drone Strike Sparks Fires at Russia’s Taman Port

Drone Strike Sparks Fires at Russia’s Taman Port A drone strike triggered multiple fires at Russia’s Taman port in the Krasnodar region, causing damage to oil storage facilities and port infrastructure, according to regional authorities. The incident occurred along the Black Sea coast, an area that plays a significant role in Russia’s export operations. Emergency services were deployed immediately to contain the blaze and secure the affected area. Local officials reported that the attack targeted fuel storage tanks and nearby port structures, igniting fires that required extensive firefighting efforts. More than a hundred emergency personnel were mobilized to prevent the flames from spreading to adjacent facilities. Authorities confirmed that the situation was brought under control after several hours, though damage assessments remain ongoing. Preliminary reports indicate that at least two individuals sustained injuries during the incident. Both were provided medical attention, and their conditions were described as stable. Officials also stated that there was no immediate evidence of large-scale environmental contamination, although inspections are continuing to ensure there is no risk of fuel leakage into surrounding waters.

Tanker Allision Damages Infrastructure at Ust-Luga Port

Tanker Allision Damages Infrastructure at Ust-Luga Port A tanker struck port infrastructure while maneuvering at the Russian Baltic Sea port of Ust-Luga, causing structural damage to a quay facility and nearby equipment. The incident occurred during docking operations and prompted an immediate response from port authorities and emergency services. No injuries were reported, and initial assessments confirmed there was no fuel spill. According to preliminary information, the vessel made contact with the berth while approaching its assigned loading position. The impact damaged sections of the quay wall and affected port equipment positioned along the dock. Emergency teams secured the area shortly after the incident to prevent further risk and to assess the stability of the damaged structures. Officials confirmed that all crew members and port workers were accounted for and unharmed. Environmental monitoring teams conducted precautionary inspections in surrounding waters and reported no signs of oil leakage or contamination. Port safety protocols were activated immediately following the collision to ensure operational safety and environmental protection.

Drone Strike Damages Russian Black Sea Port Ahead of Geneva Peace Talks

TAMAN, Russia — A drone strike attributed to Ukraine has damaged infrastructure at the Port of Taman along the Black Sea coast, Russian regional authorities confirmed. The incident occurred amid preparations for renewed diplomatic discussions aimed at reducing hostilities between Russia and Ukraine. Officials in Krasnodar Krai reported that falling drone debris ignited fires within port facilities, including a fuel storage area. Emergency response teams were dispatched to contain the blaze and assess structural damage. Local authorities stated that several individuals sustained injuries and were transported for medical treatment, though no fatalities were immediately reported. The Port of Taman serves as a significant export hub for oil products, coal, and grain shipments. Any disruption at the port has the potential to affect regional supply chains and maritime traffic in the Black Sea corridor. The attack highlights the continued use of long-range drone operations in the conflict, particularly targeting energy and logistics infrastructure. Analysts note that such strikes are intended to weaken operational capacity and economic resources while signaling strategic reach. The incident comes shortly before anticipated diplomatic engagements involving international mediators seeking pathways toward de-escalation. However, continued cross-border attacks underscore the fragile security environment and the ongoing volatility surrounding negotiations. Authorities are continuing damage assessments, while maritime operations in the area are being closely monitored for possible delays or restrictions.

Bulk Carrier Towed to Safety After Engine Failure in the Sea of Japan

A bulk carrier that experienced mechanical failure in the Sea of Japan was successfully assisted by Russian maritime authorities, preventing potential risks to the crew and the marine environment. According to reports, the vessel lost propulsion while navigating busy shipping lanes, prompting a response from Russia’s Marine Rescue Service. A rescue tug was deployed to stabilize the situation and tow the disabled ship to a safe port for inspection and necessary repairs. Authorities confirmed that all crew members remained safe throughout the operation. No injuries or pollution incidents were reported, and the vessel was secured without further complications. The incident highlights the importance of rapid emergency response in one of the region’s key maritime corridors. The Russia has maintained active maritime safety operations to ensure that commercial shipping traffic in the area continues without major disruption. Maritime officials continue to monitor the situation as the vessel undergoes technical assessment at port.

STCW Regional Forum Held in Manila, Graced by IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez

Parañaque City, Philippines — The Regional Forum on the Effective Implementation of the STCW Convention and Code was held in Manila, graced by Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), bringing together maritime leaders and stakeholders from across the region to advance discussions on the future of global seafarer training standards. During the high-level gathering, the IMO confirmed that Phase 2 of the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention will begin in the coming weeks. The next stage of the review will focus on specific amendments to ensure the Convention remains responsive to the accelerating transformation of the maritime sector — particularly in areas such as decarbonization, artificial intelligence, automation, and expanded digital systems onboard ships.

Seafarers’ Welfare Center

Good News: Filipino Seafarers’ New Seafarers’ Welfare Center Launch in MOA Area I MARINO PH A major milestone for the Philippine maritime sector was marked with the Grand Launch of the Seafarers’ Welfare Center held on 13 February 2026 at Monarch ParkSuites, Bradco Avenue, Aseana Business Park, Parañaque City (MOA Area).

Harren Group and NSB Group Strengthen Philippine Crewing Operations with Launch of Albireo in Manila

Harren Group and NSB Group Strengthen Philippine Crewing Operations with Launch of Albireo in Manila German ship management and maritime services companies Harren Group and NSB Group have formally joined forces in Manila through the successful launch of a new crewing joint venture, Albireo Maritime People and Performance Incorporated, marking a significant milestone in their long-term engagement with Filipino seafarers and global shipowners.

Joint Maritime Committee Conference 2026

Joint Maritime Conference 2026 Successfully Concludes, Spotlighting the Philippines’ Role in Global Shipping The Joint Maritime Conference 2026, “The Philippines in Global Shipping: Future Opportunities and Threats,” was successfully held on January 29, 2026, at Lanson Place Mall of Asia, Pasay City. Organized by the Joint Maritime Committee of the European Chambers of Commerce in the Philippines, the full-day conference concluded smoothly from opening to closing, earning strong positive feedback from participants across government, industry, and academia.

PILOT LADDER RIGGING (For Access Height ≤ 9 meters)

A pilot ladder is a critical piece of equipment used for the safe embarkation and disembarkation of marine pilots. Proper rigging ensures compliance with SOLAS regulations and promotes safe transfer operations between the vessel and the pilot boat. Below are the components and their corresponding descriptions: 1. Handhold Stanchions Vertical supports installed at the ship’s deck edge to provide a secure handhold for pilots when stepping from the ladder onto the deck. They must be rigid, properly secured, and positioned to allow safe and unobstructed access. 2. Pilot Ladder The rope ladder used by marine pilots to board or disembark a vessel. It consists of wooden steps secured between two side ropes. The ladder must be in good condition, free from damage, and rigged in accordance with safety regulations. 3. Man Ropes Two ropes positioned on each side of the pilot ladder to provide additional support while climbing. Man ropes must be properly secured to strong points on deck and should not interfere with the ladder’s proper positioning. The vertical ropes forming the main structure of the ladder. These ropes support the steps and must have a minimum diameter of 20 mm to ensure sufficient strength and durability. 5. Steps Flat wooden steps secured to the side ropes. All steps must be horizontal, evenly spaced, and fitted to prevent rotation. Steps should be slip-resistant and free from cracks, splits, or deterioration.

Methods of Fire Extinguishment

Methods of Fire Extinguishment Fire remains one of the most serious hazards on board ships and offshore installations. Effective firefighting depends on understanding the fire tetrahedron heat, fuel, oxygen, and the chemical chain reaction. By removing or interrupting any of these elements, a fire can be controlled and extinguished. Below are the four primary methods of fire extinguishment used in maritime operations. 1. Cooling Cooling reduces the temperature of the burning material below its ignition point. Water is the most commonly used cooling agent because of its high heat-absorbing capacity. When applied properly, water removes heat from the fire and surrounding surfaces, preventing re-ignition. Foam may also provide a cooling effect while offering additional smothering benefits. Cooling is particularly effective for Class A fires involving solid combustibles such as wood, paper, and textiles. 2. Smothering Smothering works by cutting off the oxygen supply required to sustain combustion. This can be achieved using foam, CO₂, fire blankets, or fixed fire suppression systems. By creating a barrier between the fire and the surrounding air, smothering suppresses flame spread and prevents further combustion. This method is commonly used for liquid fires and enclosed space incidents on board vessels.

The Fire Tetrahedron

The Fire Tetrahedron: Understanding the Science Behind Fire Fire is one of the most significant hazards onboard ships and in industrial workplaces. To effectively prevent and control it, we must first understand how it starts. The Fire Tetrahedron explains the four essential elements required for a fire to ignite and continue burning: heat, fuel, oxygen, and a chemical chain reaction. Unlike the traditional “fire triangle,” which includes only heat, fuel, and oxygen, the fire tetrahedron adds a fourth component the chain reaction. This chemical process sustains combustion at the molecular level. Removing any one of these four elements will prevent a fire from starting or will extinguish an existing one. The Four Elements of the Fire Tetrahedron 1. Heat Heat provides the energy needed to raise materials to their ignition temperature. Onboard vessels, heat sources may include electrical faults, hot work operations, engine components, friction, or open flames. 2. Fuel Fuel is any combustible material such as oil, fuel residues, lubricants, cargo, wood, paper, plastics, or flammable gases. Ships contain numerous fuel sources, making proper storage and housekeeping critical. 3. Oxygen Oxygen supports combustion. In most environments, the air contains about 21% oxygen more than enough to sustain a fire. Enclosed spaces can become especially dangerous if oxygen levels are uncontrolled. 4. Chain Reaction This is the self-sustaining chemical reaction that keeps the fire burning. Certain fire extinguishing agents, such as dry chemical powder, work by interrupting this reaction, effectively stopping the fire even if heat and fuel are still present.

Fire Classification

A – Ordinary Combustibles Fires involving solid materials such as wood, paper, cloth, and plastics. B – Flammable Liquids Fires caused by liquids like gasoline, oil, paint, and solvents. C – Flammable Gases Fires involving gases such as LPG, propane, and butane.