The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), through the MARINA Regional Office IV (MRO 4), led a turnover ceremony for the upcoming opening of the MARINA IV – Lucena Extension Office (LEXO) last Saturday, 10 July 2021, in line with its continued commitment to serve the riding public.

The building, which was formerly used as the Administration Building for the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA), was leased to the MRO 4 for two (2) years.

MRO 4 Regional Director Engr. Emmanuel B. Carpio visited Lucena City last Friday, 09 July 2021 to facilitate the preparations for the official turnover ceremony. Additionally, Director Carpio also took this opportunity to properly brief the personnel who would soon be part of the regular workforce in the new office.

The ceremony was held last Saturday, 10 July 2021, and was participated by PFDA Port Manager Mr. Custodio Balaoing, who turned over the keys of the new office to Director Carpio. The ceremony also symbolized the passing of the building authority, unlocking new responsibilities for the MRO 4. The activity was attended by personnel from the PFDA, incoming LEXO staff, and other maritime agencies and stakeholders.

This initiative corresponds to the first point of MARINA Administrator Robert A Empedrad’s “10-Point Agenda for the Maritime Industry” which entails increasing the capacity of the various MARINA Regional Offices (MROs). Under Administrator Empedrad’s command, the MARINA continues to work towards opening more satellite offices to make the Agency’s services more accessible in various areas in the country.

The MARINA IV- Lucena Extension Office (LEXO) was established to specifically address the needs of stakeholders located in far-flung areas, such as the Quezon Province and nearby communities. The LEXO is scheduled to start accepting applications beginning on 01 September 2021.