The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has committed its full support to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) in advancing reforms that will benefit Filipino seafarers and enhance passenger safety in the maritime sector. This commitment was expressed by Transportation Secretary Vivencio Dizon during his visit to the MARINA Central Office on 25 March 2025.

The Transportation Secretary emphasized President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s priority of making seafarers’ lives easier by streamlining the processing of their documents. He stressed the need to eliminate unnecessary procedures to ensure a faster and more efficient system, allowing Filipino seafarers to secure their certifications and requirements with ease.

Recognizing MARINA’s critical role in maritime safety, the Secretary also underscored the need for stricter measures to protect passengers. He highlighted the importance of requiring vessels to have third party insurance coverage to cargo and ship protection in case of maritime incidents.

“We must think outside the box to make life easier for our modern-day heroes—our seafarers. If we need to remove or cut unnecessary procedures, do it. At the same time, we must prioritize passenger safety by ensuring vessels have proper insurance coverage. These are the President’s priorities for the maritime sector. We will fully support MARINA in implementing such reforms,” the DOTr Chief stressed.

Meanwhile, MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan expressed gratitude for the Secretary’s appreciation of the agency’s complex functions and his commitment to supporting its initiatives and confirmed the shared goals of prioritizing seafarers’ welfare and passenger safety.

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