MANILA – As the maritime industry continues to propel its long-term Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) 2028, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has taken a significant stride by solidifying agreements with the EU-CRIMARIO and the National Coast Watch Center (NCWC) on 07 September 2023, dedicated to advancing safety and security in the maritime sector.
In his address, MARINA Administrator Atty. Hernani Fabia expressed heartfelt gratitude to the EU-CRIMARIO and the NCWC, envisioning that these partnerships “will further strengthen our camaraderie and intensify maritime security.”
“This significant undertaking is an integral part of the country’s Maritime Industry Development Plan 2028 (MIDP). Rest assured that the terms stipulated in the Memorandum of Agreement and the IORIS Partnership Agreement will be diligently observed by our Agency. I sincerely hope that the NCWC, the MARINA, and the EU-CRIMARIO will become formidable partners in delivering public service for mutual concerns… Indeed, with our valuable partnership and mutual cooperation, I am confident that we will achieve a safer and more secure maritime industry within the archipelago,” Administrator Fabia stated.
MARINA Deputy Administrator for Planning Sonia Malaluan, in her address, highlighted the significance of the IORIS Partnership Agreement, stating, “The IORIS Partnership Agreement will enable our Agency to utilize the IORIS platform, a project fully funded by the European Commission, which serves as a neutral and secure channel for operational coordination and communication. On the other hand, our Memorandum of Agreement with NCWC will enhance the effective and efficient implementation of a safe, secure, and peaceful maritime environment in the Philippines.”
EU CRIMARIO Project Director Martin Cauchi-Inglott emphasized the importance of coordination and sustained maritime information exchange, saying, “Coordination between national agencies and sustained maritime information exchange are key to a safer and more secure maritime domain, particularly in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. We are pleased to acknowledge that Filipino agencies are determined to move in that direction.”
NCWC Director CG VADM Roy A Echeverria stressed the comprehensive nature of their duty, saying, “Our duty extends beyond safeguarding our waters; it reaches into securing the livelihoods of our people, protecting our environment, and fortifying the foundations of our maritime industry. With this responsibility comes the understanding that our successes rely on our ability to form alliances, share expertise, and align our strategies.”
Enforcement Service Director Ronaldo Bandalaria announced that MARINA would be actively participating in the IORIS Steering Committee to ensure the long-term implementation, sustainability, and regional governance of the Project, saying, “We will be counting on your support for the fulfillment and success of our joint endeavors.”
The collaboration among MARINA, EU CRIMARIO, and NCWC underscores a collective commitment to advancing maritime safety and security, ultimately contributing to a safer and more prosperous maritime industry in the Philippines.