News 28 Feb, 2017 Philippines - Attacks on Vessels in the Sulu Sea The number of attacks on vessels in the Sulu and Celebes Sea have surged recently with a corresponding increase in the severity of the attacks. In a recent incident six crew members were abducted with one crewman being shot dead.  The International Fusion Centre (IFC) has now reported a total of 37 incidents in this area, of which 17 have included abduction of crew, since January 2016. The Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia ( ReCAAP ) details known incidents and has published the Regional Guide to Counter Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia. Littoral states are also considering the establishment of a high security corridor along the Sulu Sea however this has not yet been agreed. Members are recommended to follow IMO's Guidance to ship owners and ship operators, shipmasters and crews on preventing and suppressing acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships  MSC.1/Circ.1334 .The following specific precautionary measures are recommended:  If a viable option consider alternate routing to avoid transiting the area. Prior to entering the area conduct a risk assessment, brief crew and conduct a drill, prepare and test an emergency communication plan. Proceed at maximum sustainable speed whist in the area. Maintain good communications via VHF Channels 08 and 16 with littoral law enforcement agencies and the IFC. A map and contact details of the relevant local authorities is attached at Annex A of the IMO Guidance referenced above. Activate the ship’s Automatic Identification System (AIS). This should be restricted to ship’s identity, position, course, speed, navigational status and safety related information. Increase vigilance in watch-keeping and deploy additional lookouts. Use CCTV cameras for coverage of vulnerable areas (if available). Keep ship’s whistle and fog horn ready for immediate use. Secure or lift externa