The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) targets to not only maintain the top global position of the Philippines in providing seafarers but it also intends to increase the number of officers.

MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan mentioned the said goal of the Agency during the “State of Security, Economy and Environment of Philippine Seas” held at First Maritime Place, Makati City on 24 June 2024, as she served as one of the panelists during Session 2 entitled “The Philippine Shipping Industry and the Role of Filipino Global Maritime Professionals,” along with Assistant Secretary for Maritime Atty. Julius Yano and PTC Group CEO Gerardo Borromeo.

During the panel discussion, Malaluan said that MARINA has been aggressively providing trainings for seafarers especially those who are working in domestic shipping. She also said that they are focusing on the comprehensive review of the STCW Convention. The Administrator added that they are expecting modern, bigger and environmentally compliant ships that will change the landscape in domestic shipping in relation to the amended Public Service Act.

In terms of shipbuilding and ship repair, Malaluan recognized the challenges including the availability of equipment and materials in constructing ships. She mentioned about the Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Development Bill that MARINA is pushing, as well as the necessity of passing a legislation for ship registry, to address some issues and concerns in the maritime sector.

Meanwhile, the first panel session focused on updates on the Philippine maritime security situation while the third session explored Blue Economy especially its impacts and challenges.