Various government agencies and maritime stakeholders discussed how to further enhance maritime safety in the country particularly the daily operations of ROPAX fleet.

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and French Maritime Expert (FME) hosted the Stakeholders’ Forum on the Progress Report of Concentrated Campaign on the Enhancement ROPAX Fleet Safety Level at the MARINA Central Office, Port Area, Manila on 29 January 2024.

During the first part of the discussions, Assistant Secretary for Maritime Atty. Julius Yano recognized the importance of creating a one system between MARINA and Philippine Coast Guard, which will provide the data on maritime incidents / accidents in the country.

For his part, MARINA Chief of Staff and Shipyards Regulation Service Director II Engr. Ramon Hernandez emphasized that maritime safety is one of the MARINA’s top priorities. He also mentioned the digitalization project of their Agency which will aid in the enforcement of ship safety rules and regulations.

FME Mr. Emeric Faure presented the progress report on the said campaign which includes the risk reduction plan to avoid or at least reduce the number of maritime incidents / accidents that were caused by engine trouble, fire onboard, grounding, collision and capsizing among others.

Further, a separate meeting was conducted in the afternoon to present the progress report to the maritime stakeholders including ship owners, shipyards and MARINA Accredited Classification Societies.

MARINA OIC-Deputy Administrator for Planning Ms. Nenita Atienza emphasized that the Concentrated Campaign is in line with the effective implementation of the Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) 2028 particularly Overriding Program on Enhancement of Maritime Safety (Merchants and Fishing Fleets).

View photos here.