MANILA — The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) received the green light from the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) regarding its readiness for ISO Certification 9001:2015 Standards for the Quality Management System (QMS) during a closing meeting on 27 December 2023 via Zoom.
This move aligns with Administrator Sonia Bautista Malaluan’s thrust to certify MARINA’s core processes under ISO 9001:2015 standards for the QMS, highlighting its dedication to quality management and global standards.
During the meeting, DAP has noted commendable findings on MARINA, as it declared the Agency being ‘Certifiable’ by the assessors of DAP — signaling its readiness to undergo ISO 9001:2015 Certification.
The positive findings from the DAP assessment include:
1. Top Management’s Active Support: MARINA’s top management actively participated in planning sessions, management reviews, and readiness assessment opening and closing meetings, showcasing unwavering support for the QMS expansion project.
2. Office Objectives and Achievements: All MARINA offices presented their objectives, targets, and accomplishments, achieving an impressive success rate. Nearly all objectives and targets set for the first half of 2023 were met, reflecting MARINA’s commitment to excellence.
3. International Recognition: MARINA has successfully maintained and improved the Philippines’ position in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) convention. Additionally, the organization completed the International Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS) and the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) Audit, demonstrating adherence to global standards.
4. MARINA-SRS’s Proactive Approach: The Shipyards Regulation Service (SRS) within MARINA displayed a proactive approach to compliance assessment and personnel development. Notably, the provision of QR codes for easy stakeholder access to MARINA Circulars (MCs) sets a commendable standard for the maritime industry.
The implementation of ISO 9001:2015 standards for the QMS offers a holistic framework that not only ensures the delivery of high-quality products or services but also contributes to organizational growth, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
On 16 Feb 2023, MARINA was selected as a 2023 Beneficiary Agency of the Government Quality Management Program (GQMP) for the Expansion of ISO 9001:2015. Through the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) titled “Expansion of ISO 9001-Certified Quality Management System for the Maritime Industry Authority,” DAP is providing technical assistance and conducting capacity-building interventions.
DAP is facilitating the expansion of MARINA’s ISO 9001:2015-Certified QMS, providing customized orientation and training courses, and offering technical guidance for the development of required documented information.