In a move poised to restore the Philippines as a global leader in the maritime sector, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. officially declared the revival of the country’s shipbuilding industry today. The declaration came during the inauguration of the new HD Hyundai Shipyard in Subic, Zambales, signaling a strategic national effort to reclaim its former position among the world’s top shipbuilding nations.
During the ceremony, President Marcos highlighted the critical importance of revitalizing the industry, which was once a major economic engine for the country. “Together with our partners, we are reviving shipbuilding in the country to strengthen industries, promote livelihood, and build a better, stronger future for the Philippines,” he stated.
The President noted that the Philippines previously produced up to 2 million gross tons of ships annually between 2014 and 2018. Following a slowdown in 2019, today’s inauguration marks a new chapter. “Today, we raise the sails once more,” President Marcos declared.
Strategic Partnership and Economic Impact
The HD Hyundai Shipyard, an investment by Hyundai Heavy Industries, is set to significantly boost the country’s shipbuilding capacity. The facility’s capacity will expand from 1.3 million to 2.5 million deadweight tons, with the potential to construct up to eight large oil tankers annually. This expansion is a key step in what President Marcos described as “reclaiming our rightful place among the world’s great shipbuilding nations.”
The renewed push is supported by government initiatives aimed at aligning technical skills training with international standards across 16 disciplines, including marine electricity, gas, and arc welding. This commitment to skills development underscores a long-term vision to not only revive but also sustain the industry for future generations.
“Together, let us show the world that Filipinos have the skills, the vision to navigate the uncertain waters of an ever-changing world,” President Marcos concluded, emphasizing the nation’s resilience and readiness to compete on a global stage.
HD Hyundai’s Long-Term Commitment
HD Hyundai’s restart of large-scale shipbuilding operations will be conducted under a 10-year lease agreement with Agila Subic, a Cerberus portfolio company. The 200-hectare lease, which begins in January 2026, will support both offshore wind platform construction and vessel production, solidifying a long-term commitment to the Philippine maritime sector.
