Almost 80 shipyards in the country along with the concerned government agencies discussed the latest developments, issues, concerns and other related matters in the shipbuilding and ship repair sector.
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) in cooperation with Shipyards Association of the Philippines (ShAP) held the 3rd National Shipyards Convention at City Sports Club, Cebu City on 16-17 April 2024. This event aims to provide a platform for shipyard operators, industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to share insights, best practices, and technological advancements in shipbuilding and maritime operations.
In his keynote address, Undersecretary for Maritime Mr. Elmer Francisco Sarmiento mentioned the Executive Order No. 55, which adopts the Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) 2028. Guided by the MIDP Core Program on Modernization, Expansion and Promotion of the Philippine Shipbuilding Industry, Usec. Sarmiento believes that it is important to recognize the role of research and development, particularly on matters involving ship recycling, green shipping, modernized transport system technology, and ancillary industries to support shipbuilding.
During the said event, MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan presided the oath taking of the new ShAP Board of Directors. She also recognized the importance of the convention’s resolution, which was signed after the workshop that focused on legislation, research and development, capability and capacity and SBSR workforce. Malaluan highlighted the SBSR Development Bill that the MARINA is pushing under the MIDP 2028, and also provided updates on the digitalization project that will enhance frontline services and boost ease of doing business.
ShAP Chairperson Mr. Meneleo Carlos III hopes for the participants to reabsorb the issues that involves security, development, environment safety and growth.
The 3rd National Shipyards Convention featured different presentations including the Proposed Shipbuilding Development Act Bill, which was presented by MARINA Chief of Staff and SRS Director II Engr. Ramon Hernandez. SDLD Chief Engr. Maria Teresa Mamisao presented the MARINA’s SBSR Situation Report while French Maritime Expert Mr. Emeric Faure talked about shipbuilding safety compliance level.
It was also attended by DND Undersecretary for Acquisition and Resource Management Mr. Salvador Melchor Mison Jr., Shipyards Association of Cebu Chairperson Mr. Glenn dela Torre, MARINA Regional Office VII Director Ms. Annabell Lagas, Enforcement Service Director Engr. Ronaldo Bandalaria, MARINA Regional Office-NCR Director Engr. Marc Anthony Pascua, DTI-Board of Investments OIC-Director Mr. Rey Lignes, Maritime League Representative RAdm. Margarito Sanchez AFP (Ret.) MSSAI President Ms. Jennifer Cuerdo, SONAME Chairperson Engr. Sammuel Lim, BUEA Ambassador to the Philippines Mr. Hyoungkyu Park, DBP Cebu Senior Manager Mr. Dan Clever Gigantone, other government agencies and private stakeholders.