The Philippines highlighted the ongoing transformation of its maritime industry, focusing on a human centered approach to workforce development and technological advancement to meet global sustainability goals and industry demands.
This was highlighted by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) as it held the first-ever Philippine Shipping and Shipbuilding Expo and Conference (PHILSHIPCON), one of the major conferences of the Blue Economy Annual Trade and Conference (BEACON) at the SMX Convention Center on September 29, 2025.
MARINA Overseas Shipping Service Director Engr. Ramon Hernandez mentioned that PHILSHIPCON said the ongoing human centric transformation initiative includes modernizing skills, supporting seafarers’ well-being, investing in training for green technologies, and aligning with international efforts like the IMO’s net zero framework to ensure a resilient, prosperous, and sustainable future for Philippine shipping and its crucial role in the national economy.
Meanwhile, MARINA OIC Deputy Administrator for Operations Engr. Emmanuel Carpio reiterated that MARINA remains committed in ensuring maritime safety, promoting marine environment protection, as well as exerting best efforts for the overall improvement of the Philippine maritime sector.
The event was graced by Mr. Ionnis Pediotis, the Ambassador of Greece in the Philippines, who delivered an inspirational message emphasizing on the undeniable connection of maritime nations to the seas. The first ever PHILSHIPCON featured the MARINA priority bills related to SBSR development and ship registry along with the legislative strategies of the Agency. It also tackled the current situation of overseas shipping sector, future prospects of ship management and current trends on shipbuilding.
In his written message, 1Tahanan Party List Representative Hon. Nathaniel Oducado mentioned that it is an honor and privilege to file bills strengthening the SBSR sector and Philippine registry to make the maritime industry more competitive, create more jobs and generate revenue for national economy.
“From fishing and shipping to international trade and maritime labor, millions of Filipinos rely on the ocean for their livelihood and mobility. Strengthening this sector is not just beneficial for us, it is essential to our national development” Hon. Oducado said.
It conference with the theme, “PH Ships: Navigating New Perspectives and Exploring New Opportunities,” aimed to highlight various opportunities in overseas shipping and shipbuilding and ship repair (SBSR) sector by gathering industry professionals, government officials, investors, and maritime stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and drive the growth of the country’s maritime economy.
