A national workshop recently held in Manila focused on enhancing understanding and implementation of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) liability and compensation regime. The workshop specifically addressed key conventions including the 2010 HNS Convention, the 2001 Bunkers Convention, and the 2007 Nairobi Wreck Removal Convention.
The IMO’s comprehensive liability and compensation framework encompasses various international conventions, legal instruments, and guidelines. These are crucial for ensuring timely and effective cost recovery for those affected by maritime incidents such as oil spills, wreck removal operations, or collisions involving dangerous cargo or fuel. The framework also promotes accountability among shipowners, insurers, and the broader maritime industry.
Hosted by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) of the Philippines’ Department of Transportation and facilitated by the IMO, the workshop brought together representatives from key national agencies. Participants included officials from the Departments of Transport, Justice, Foreign Affairs, the Coast Guard, legal divisions, and port authorities.
In her opening remarks, MARINA Administrator, Ms. Sonia B. Malaluan, urged interagency collaboration to facilitate the Philippines’ accession to and implementation of relevant IMO instruments related to liability and compensation for maritime damage. She emphasized the importance of improved cost recovery and the promotion of sustainable shipping practices.
Experts from the IMO Secretariat, the IOPC Funds, and the P&I Clubs led the workshop sessions, providing participants with in-depth knowledge of each convention’s requirements, historical development, core principles, and practical application.
Participants also delivered presentations on the Philippines’ law-making process, exploring avenues for further incorporating IMO conventions into national legislation. These presentations offered valuable insights into drafting national maritime laws and highlighted potential challenges in implementing IMO instruments.
The workshop aimed to accelerate the ratification, implementation, and enforcement of IMO liability instruments within the Philippines. This initiative was supported through the IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP).
