IN PHOTOS: The MARINA Enforcement Service (ES) held the Capacity Building Workshop in the Conduct of Maritime Safety Investigation from 01-05 April 2024 in Cebu City. The event, graced by MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan, gathered MARINA personnel and maritime stakeholders to encourage the promotion of a common approach to investigating marine casualties and incidents.
The endeavor likewise enhanced their competence to carry out safety investigations in accordance with international standards based on the IMO Casualty Investigation Code.
The workshop was spearheaded by Enforcement Director Engr. Ronaldo P. Bandalaria, along with Division Chief of the Complaints and Investigation Division, Atty. Benedicto G. Manlapaz, and able staff, Engr. Roland Kenneth M. Ballesteros and Reniel Pascual. A total of thirty (30) participants with various maritime backgrounds joined the training workshop. The Chairman from the European Marine Accident Investigators’ International Forum likewise shared the best practices of France in conducting safety investigations.
During the 5-day program, participants engaged in a variety of interactive workshops, training sessions, and open discussions, all centered around the importance of safety investigation in promoting a safety culture. It was highlighted that safety investigation aims to minimize, if not totally eliminate, the recurrence of similar marine accidents.
Administrator Malaluan, in her opening remarks, expressed her sincere gratitude and commendation to the ES for their extensive work in organizing and facilitating the technical workshop. Likewise, Engr. Bandalaria, in his closing remarks, emphasized the vital role of marine safety investigators and challenged them to maintain its integrity and independence.
The event held in Cebu City is a testament to MARINA’s commitment to excellence and continuous professional development for its personnel and an opportunity for its stakeholders to network, exchange best practices, and learn from maritime experts, leading the pathway to greater cooperation and collaboration within the maritime industry.