The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) announced a significant milestone demonstrating the Philippines’ reinforced commitment to international maritime standards, with two of its senior personnel successfully approved by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and included in the esteemed pool of auditors under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS).
The approved auditors are Mr. Harold G. Tarun, Maritime Education and Training Standards Supervisor from the STCW Office, and Ms. Marissa G. Esguerra, Chief of the Quality Management Division. Their inclusion in the official IMO roster confirms their technical competence and professional integrity, making them qualified to conduct independent and objective audits of IMO Member States globally.
This achievement underscores MARINA’s enhanced institutional capability and the nation’s proactive role within the international maritime framework. By supplying qualified auditors to the IMSAS, the Philippines contributes meaningfully to strengthening compliance, safety, security, and environmental protection conventions worldwide.
The IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS) is a vital mechanism that evaluates how effectively Member States implement and enforce key IMO instruments related to maritime safety, pollution prevention, and seafarer welfare. With auditors now directly within its ranks, MARINA is better positioned to align national maritime governance with the highest global benchmarks.
This recognition stands as a collective success for the entire Philippine maritime administration, reflecting MARINA’s dedication to excellence and reinforcing the country’s reputation for promoting safe, secure, and environmentally responsible shipping.
