Functions and Responsibilites

Based on Decision No. 1252/QD-BGTVT dated October 5, 2023, issued by the Minister of Transport, which outlines the functions, tasks, authority, and organizational structure of the Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre (Vietnam MRCC):

I. Position and Function

The Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Centre (referred to as "the Centre") is a humanitarian service unit under the Vietnam Maritime Administration. It holds the primary responsibility for coordinating search and rescue activities in Vietnamese maritime areas, excluding port waters, restricted zones, and prohibited sea areas.

II. Tasks and Authorities in Maritime Search and Rescue

1. The Centre develops and submits five-year and annual plans, programs, projects, and proposals on maritime search and rescue to the Director of the Vietnam Maritime Administration for approval or submission to higher authorities.

2. The Centre leads or participates in the formulation of national standards, technical regulations, and economic-technical norms in the field of maritime search and rescue, which are then submitted to the Vietnam Maritime Administration.

3. The Centre contributes to the drafting of legal documents related to maritime search and rescue and issues specialized administrative and operational documents within its authority.

4. The Centre implements legal documents, plans, standards, technical regulations, and economic-technical norms concerning maritime search and rescue.

5. The Centre promotes and disseminates laws related to maritime search and rescue and maritime traffic safety to relevant organizations and individuals, following the approved plans by the Ministry of Transport and the Vietnam Maritime Administration.

6. Coordinated Search and Rescue Operations:

- The Centre constructs coordination mechanisms and plans for maritime search and rescue, submits them for approval, and organizes their execution.

- The Centre directly commands and operates search and rescue forces, primarily coordinating search and rescue operations within Vietnam’s maritime areas. In situations beyond its capacity, the Centre reports to and follows instructions from the National Committee for Incident, Disaster Response, and Search and Rescue.

- The Centre may mobilize and command individuals, vessels, and equipment from organizations and individuals for search and rescue efforts in its jurisdiction.

- The Centre organizes and conducts search and rescue drills with internal and external rescue forces based on approved coordination plans.

- The Centre also collaborates on search and rescue efforts in ports, restricted areas, and prohibited zones under the leadership of the designated authority.

- The Centre operates 24/7 to receive, process, and respond to maritime distress calls within Vietnam’s designated search and rescue areas.

- The Centre tracks and manages information related to personnel, vessels, and equipment involved in search and rescue operations.

Management and Cooperation

7. The Centre manages equipment, ensuring the readiness of search and rescue machinery and vessels.

8. The Centre participates in international cooperation on maritime search and rescue and coordinates with ASEAN nations, following Vietnam's legal framework and international agreements.

9. The Centre also supports maritime safety and security efforts, contributing to the protection of Vietnam's sovereignty over its islands and seas when requested.

Training, Human Resources, and Financial Management

10. The Centre trains and provides professional development for organizations and individuals involved in search and rescue operations.

11. The Centre manages its personnel, implements wage and reward policies, and organizes the structure and staff positions, subject to approval.

12. Search and rescue personnel wear uniforms as prescribed by law.

13. The Centre utilizes state budget funds and other legitimate sources to perform its duties and manages finances and assets according to legal regulations.

Research and Technological Application

14. The Centre conducts research and applies scientific and technological advances in search and rescue operations, establishing information databases for management and operational purposes.

Public Relations and Accountability

15. The Centre directly engages with relevant domestic and international organizations to fulfill its functions and tasks.

16. The Centre handles public complaints, petitions, and corruption prevention, and addresses legal violations within its authority.

17. The Centre participates in the development and implementation of administrative reforms for the Vietnam Maritime Administration.

18. The Centre follows prescribed reporting and statistical protocols.

19. The Centre performs additional duties as assigned by authorized agencies.