Marina showcases green shipping initiatives

The Philippines, through the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina), presented its initiatives to promote a safer, greener, and more competitive maritime sector during the 15th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-China Maritime Consultation Mechanism Meeting.

Aligned with the directives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, Marina outlined ongoing programs aimed at advancing maritime safety and environmental sustainability.

The Philippine delegation was led by Marina Regional Office 7 director Ronaldo P. Bandalaria, alongside Maritime Safety Service director Divinagracia Tolosa and a representative from the agency’s Overseas Shipping Service.

During the forum, Philippine officials detailed national efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions from ships in accordance with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2023 Greenhouse Gas Strategy.

Key initiatives include the country’s participation in the IMO-Republic of Korea SMART-C GHG Project, which supports the implementation of MARPOL Annex VI regulations and the establishment of national maritime emissions baselines.

The delegation also underscored the need to strengthen maritime education and training to ensure Filipino seafarers remain highly skilled and globally competitive.

Marina said these initiatives reinforce the country’s commitment to sustainable maritime development and its vital role in the global shipping industry.