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MARINA says the Philippines’ economic growth, trade, connectivity, and security are deeply anchored on a strong maritime industry
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The agency cites a wave of modernization, digitalization, shipbuilding gains, and green shipping efforts reshaping the sector
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Offshore wind development and stronger maritime security cooperation are flagged as key drivers of future economic gains
Strengthening the maritime industry is essential to the Philippines’ economic growth, trade, connectivity, and security, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) said, as the agency cited an ongoing wave of modernization, digitalization, and sustainability efforts reshaping the sector.
Speaking at the opening of PhilMarine Expo 2026, Loumer Bernabe, MARINA deputy administrator for operations, said the continued development of the maritime sector remains a national priority given the country’s status as an archipelago of more than 7,600 islands.
“Our economic, trade, connectivity and security are deeply anchored on a strong and resilient maritime industry. As such, the continued development of the sector remains a national priority,” Bernabe said.
He added that the industry is at a pivotal stage, with notable progress in modernization, digitalization of services, shipbuilding and ship repair capabilities, and the global standing of Filipino seafarers.
“Today, the Philippine maritime industry stands at a critical point of transformation. We are witnessing significant advancement in maritime modernization, digitalization of maritime services, enhancement of shipbuilding and ship repair capabilities, and strengthened global competitiveness of Filipino seafarers who remain among the most trusted maritime professionals in the world. Equally important is the growing momentum towards sustainability and green shipping,” he said.
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Green shipping and shipbuilding gains
Bernabe said the Philippines continues to support global efforts to decarbonize maritime transport through the promotion of energy-efficient vessels, cleaner fuels, and environmentally responsible operations.
He highlighted the recent development of the MV Brave Pioneer in Cebu, recognized as the world’s first methanol dual-fueled Kamsarmax bulk carrier, as a major milestone for the country’s maritime sector.
“This achievement highlights not only the country’s advancing shipbuilding capability but also the growing competence of Filipino engineers, shipbuilders, and maritime professionals in contributing to global green shipping solutions,” Bernabe said.
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“It is a clear demonstration that the Philippines is capable of participating in and shaping the future of a sustainable maritime transport,” he added.
Offshore wind: a new growth driver
Bernabe also underscored the role of offshore renewable energy, particularly offshore wind projects, in supporting the country’s long-term energy security — and, by extension, its economic agenda.
“Furthermore, we recognize the increasing importance of offshore renewable energy, particularly offshore wind development, as a key component of the country’s long-term energy security and sustainability agenda. These developments open new opportunities for investment, job creation and technological innovation while supporting the global transition toward cleaner energy systems,” he said.
READ: Offshore wind ports ready by 2026, says PPA
Reforms to support a safer, more competitive sector
Bernabe said MARINA continues to implement reforms aimed at improving maritime safety, enhancing regulatory efficiency, modernizing domestic shipping operations, and ensuring compliance with international maritime standards — measures the agency frames as foundational to sustaining economic gains from the sector.
“These efforts are part of our broader commitment to build a maritime sector that is safer, smarter, greener, and more globally competitive,” he said.
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He also flagged the need for stronger maritime security and defense cooperation amid evolving global challenges, framing it as integral to protecting the country’s economic and trade interests at sea.
“We also acknowledge the importance of maritime and security defense cooperation amid evolving global challenges. Strengthening partnership across government agencies, the private sector, and international stakeholders is essential to ensuring safe, secure, and resilient maritime operation,” Bernabe said.
He acknowledged PhilMarine Expo 2026 as an important venue for dialogue, technology exchange, and collaboration among industry stakeholders working toward these economic goals.
“Events such as PhilMarine Expo serve as a vital platform for meaningful dialogue, technology exchange, and strategic collaboration. They allow us to collectively address challenges, explore innovation, and shape the future of the maritime and offshore industries,” he said. — Michael Barcas
