Key maritime industry leaders, government officials, and stakeholders gathered for the Bangsamoro Maritime Transportation Summit 2025, a pivotal event aimed at strengthening maritime safety and sustainability in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Held from 11-12 February, the summit served as a crucial platform for addressing pressing issues in the maritime sector.
With the theme “Ensuring Safe and Sustainable Maritime Transportation in BARMM,” the summit focused on enhancing safety measures, improving infrastructure, and bolstering regional connectivity. Discussions highlighted collaborative efforts to address challenges and implement strategic solutions for a more resilient maritime transport system.
The event brought together officials from key maritime and transportation agencies, including DOTr Assistant Secretary Atty. Julius A. Yano, MOTC-BARMM Minister Atty. Paisalin P. Tago, CPA, MOTC-BARMM Director-General Atty. Roslaine L. Macao-Manir, CSEE, MARINA Chief of Staff Dir. Ronaldo P. Bandalaria, Philippine Coast Guard District-BARMM Commander CG Commodore Marco Antonio Gines, and BEZA Minister Atty. Sukarno Abas. Representatives from BMARINA and other BARMM agencies were also in attendance.
During the discussions, Dir. Bandalaria emphasized the enforcement of Republic Act 9295, the Domestic Shipping Development Act of 2004, and raised concerns over deceptive vessels and the increase in maritime casualties from 2018 to 2024.
Industry leaders underscored the need for strengthened collaboration between MARINA and BMARINA to enhance maritime safety and economic growth. MARINA Regional Office IV Director, Engr. Rizal J. Victoria advocated for joint safety exercises, policy reforms, and infrastructure investments. MARINA Regional Office OIC-Director Dr. Farida T. Cunanan highlighted the importance of improving the business environment, investing in human capital, and leveraging technological advancements. Meanwhile, MARINA Regional Office XII Regional Director Engr. Bernardo A. Pollo called for upgraded port facilities, standardized safety regulations, and stricter enforcement to facilitate regional trade and connectivity.
Other notable attendees included MARINA Legal Service Director Atty. Eusebia A. Cadlum-Boco, MRO4 Atty. Ivy Audrey T. Fampo, MRO9 Senior SOS Engr. Bevin M. Bibi, and MRO12 Engineer II Engr. Raul R. Firmacion.
The summit concluded with a unified commitment to advancing policy frameworks, improving maritime infrastructure, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of BARMM’s maritime transport system. The agreements reached during the event are expected to drive economic growth, sustainability, and enhanced regional maritime connectivity in the years ahead.
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