The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management of the Kingdom of the Netherlands reaffirmed their commitment to stronger maritime cooperation during a bilateral meeting held on 24 June 2026 in Makati City.
Led by MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan, the Philippine delegation met with Dutch officials headed by Ambassador Marielle Geraedts and Director of Maritime Affairs Mr. Paul Van Gurp of the Netherlands’ Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management to discuss key developments affecting the global maritime sector.
Among the topics discussed were the ongoing situation in the Persian Gulf, the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Net-Zero Framework, the ongoing comprehensive Review of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), and other areas of bilateral maritime cooperation.
During the meeting, both sides exchanged updates on the challenges facing the international shipping industry and underscored the importance of continued collaboration in promoting the welfare of seafarers, advancing sustainable shipping, and strengthening international maritime standards.
The Philippines and the Netherlands likewise reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining close coordination through bilateral engagements and multilateral platforms, including the IMO, in support of a safe, resilient, and future-ready global maritime industry.
