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A maritime delegation from the Philippines, representing both public and private sectors, visited Norway recently to examine electric ferry technologies and network systems
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The four-day visit was organized by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila, in partnership with Innovation Norway and Maritime Cleantech
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The program covered policy and market requirements for the green transition, site visits, and presentations by Norwegian e-ferry experts, technology providers and operators
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Delegates came from the Department of Transportation, Maritime Industry Authority, Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corp., AD&V Business Consultancy and Outsourcing, Follosco Morallos & Herce, and the World Bank
A maritime delegation from the Philippines, representing both public and private sectors, visited Norway recently to examine electric ferry (e-ferry) technologies and network systems as part of the country’s efforts to find cleaner and more efficient water public transportation solutions.
The four-day visit was organized by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila in partnership with Innovation Norway and Maritime Cleantech.
The program included discussions on policy and market requirements for the green transition, site visits, and presentations from Norwegian e-ferry experts, technology providers, and ferry operators.
The delegation included representatives from the Department of Transportation, Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Archipelago Philippine Ferries Corp., AD&V Business Consultancy and Outsourcing, Follosco Morallos & Herce, and the World Bank.
The initiative is aligned with the Philippine government’s efforts to shift public transportation toward electric and lower-emission technologies.
Norway is a leader in electric mobility and introduced the world’s first fully electric commuter ferry, MS Ampere, in 2015. It also launched the world’s first high-speed e-ferry, MS Medstraum, in 2022.
When Medstraum began operating on a commuter route in Stavanger, it reduced regional emissions by an amount equivalent to taking 30 to 60 buses off the road, according to the statement. The vessel also uses about 30% less energy than conventional alternatives.
The Philippine visit builds on the Norway-Philippines Electric Ferries Conference held in Manila in November 2025, which highlighted plans for a high-frequency, low-carbon commuter ferry network connecting Metro Manila with neighboring provinces.
READ: e-ferry prototype deal inked
The Philippine government has also emphasized the need to accelerate climate action and decarbonization, particularly in the transport sector.
The continuing cooperation between Norway and the Philippines is intended to support the use of cleaner fuels and technologies, reduce transportation costs, and maximize the use of the country’s inter-island and inland waterways.
Norwegian Ambassador Kristian Netland said Norway is ready to share its experience as the Philippines modernizes and decarbonizes its maritime sector.
“As the Philippines pursues a more sustainable and modern maritime sector, we see great potential for cooperation and look forward to sharing Norwegian experience and innovation in support of the country’s green transition,” Netland said.
