A strong and competitive shipbuilding and ship repair (SBSR) industry is key to making the Philippines a prosperous nation, according to Congressman Arnan C. Panaligan of Oriental Mindoro’s First District. The lawmaker has voiced his strong support for priority legislative measures from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) aimed at revitalizing the country’s maritime sector.
“We will be a wealthy country if we have a robust shipbuilding industry,” said Rep. Panaligan, who believes the sector is a crucial engine for national development. His statement was made during a courtesy visit by MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan to the House of Representatives on August 18, 2025, where the proposed bills were discussed.
Rep. Panaligan has already taken legislative action by filing House Bill No. 00134, titled “An Act Promoting the Development of the Shipbuilding and Shiprepair Industry, Ordaining Reforms in Government Policies Towards Shipbuilding and Ship Repair in the Philippines, and for Other Purposes.” He has also filed a related bill, the Integrated Iron and Steel Industry Development Bill, which aims to create the National Steel Development Authority to boost the domestic steel industry. Rep. Panaligan emphasized that growth in the shipbuilding sector is dependent on a strong domestic steel industry.
“I am willing to be your partner here in the House. Let’s work together,” Rep. Panaligan assured MARINA, confirming his commitment to collaborate with the agency to advance policies and reforms that will uplift the maritime industry.
