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The Philippine maritime industry is rapidly transforming with modernization initiatives, digitalization, sustainability, and stronger industry collaboration, according to the Maritime Industry Authority
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The Philippines, as an archipelagic nation of 7,600+ islands, treats maritime development as a national priority tied to economic, trade, and security interests, says Loumer Bernabe, deputy administrator for operations at MARINA
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Filipino seafarers continue to strengthen their position as among the world’s most trusted maritime professionals
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The Philippines is increasing support for green shipping, energy-efficient vessels, and cleaner maritime fuels
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The development of the MV Brave Pioneer in Cebu, described as the world’s first methanol dual-fueled Kamsarmax bulk carrier, highlights the country’s growing shipbuilding expertise
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Offshore renewable energy, particularly offshore wind, is creating new opportunities for investment, jobs, and technological innovation
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MARINA is pursuing initiatives to improve maritime safety, regulatory efficiency, domestic shipping modernization, and compliance with international standards
The Philippine maritime industry is undergoing a period of rapid transformation driven by modernization initiatives, digitalization, sustainability efforts, and stronger industry collaboration, according to the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).
Speaking at the opening of PhilMarine Expo 2026, Loumer Bernabe, deputy administrator for operations at MARINA, said the continued development of the maritime sector remains a national priority with the Philippines being an archipelagic nation 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 noted that the industry is experiencing significant advances in maritime modernization, the digitalization of services, enhanced shipbuilding and ship repair capabilities, and stronger global competitiveness among 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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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.
READ: PH shipbuilding milestone: THI delivers world’s 1st methanol dual-fuelled bulk carrier
“It is a clear demonstration that the Philippines is capable of participating in and shaping the future of a sustainable maritime transport,” he added.
The MARINA official also underscored the importance of offshore renewable energy, particularly offshore wind projects, in supporting the country’s long-term energy security and sustainability goals.
“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
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.
“These efforts are part of our broader commitment to build a maritime sector that is safer, smarter, greener, and more globally competitive,” he said.
READ: MARINA to test greenhouse gas emissions platform
He also emphasized the need for stronger maritime security and defense cooperation amid evolving global challenges.
“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.
“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
