Filipino shipbuilders achieve global success

Cebu — The expanding shipyard of Austal Philippines in the municipality of Balamban in Cebu is home to a wealth of Filipino shipbuilding talent.

The facility has served as the regional hub of leading global shipbuilder and defense prime contractor, Austal since 2012. It is strategically positioned to cater to the growing market demand for passenger and vehicle-passenger ferries, offshore crew transfer vessels, and military vessels.

Over 900 Filipinos are currently employed as engineers, naval architects, design staff, skilled laborers, production tradespersons and administrators by Austal Philippines. This number is expected to grow as the company’s order book increases.

In 2017, the Center on Globalization, Governance & Competitiveness at Duke University reported that export-oriented shipbuilding made up for 2.6 percent of Philippine exports in 2015. Revenue generated by the shipbuilding and repair industry was estimated at $1.6 billion.

A separate report published by the Maritime Industry Authority in 2018 stated that the Philippines was the 4th largest shipbuilding country in the world. At least 2,161 vessels were manufactured locally in 2017.

Both reports indicated that the country’s key advantage and challenge is its workforce. While the Philippines has produced globally-competitive shipbuilding professionals, the best talent often go overseas to earn higher wages and pursue career opportunities.

“Filipinos are in-demand overseas. They’re known for their work ethic, attention to detail, cost competitiveness, and English language skills,” remarks Austal Philippines President Wayne Murray. “Bringing Austal’s advanced maritime technologies and providing avenues for upskilling local talent has been key to attracting and retaining the best people.”

Since it began operations in 2012, developing local talent has been a priority for Austal Philippines. Ninety-eight percent of Austal Philippines’ employees are Filipino.

For Balamban native Ed Kaamino, working as an engineering coordinator at Austal Philippines gave him an opportunity to be part of a global company without leaving home. “Before (Austal) I was just trying to find a job to feed my family.” He shares that he is now able to provide for his family while acquiring world-class skills. “Working here is very fulfilling. The compensation is great and the skills we get here is something that can never be taken away.”