The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has committed to spearheading the transition toward a greener domestic shipping sector, pledging to transform a landmark decarbonization study into actionable, on-the-ground maritime projects.
During a recent dissemination workshop, MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan emphasized the urgency of modernizing the Philippine domestic ferry sector. The agency aims to promote the findings of the Inter-Island Ferry Decarbonization Pilot Study and engage key stakeholders—including local shipowners and government units in Iloilo and Negros—to begin implementation.
“The priority now is to translate this study into action. It will truly improve the efficiency and sustainability of our domestic ferry sector—an imperative that is both necessary and urgent,” said Administrator Malaluan. “Through this pilot, we are advancing practical and scalable solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
The study, presented by ARUP Project Consultants Christopher Wong and Dr. George Grigoropoulos, outlines three primary pathways for the Philippines to reduce its maritime carbon footprint:
-
Electrification: Deploying fully electric ferries for short-distance routes (e.g., Iloilo–Bacolod).
-
Hybridization: Utilizing hybrid vessels for medium-range transit (e.g., Batangas–Calapan).
-
Efficiency Upgrades: Implementing fuel-saving technologies and operational retrofits for long-haul vessels.
Administrator Malaluan highlighted that short-route electrification serves as the most practical entry point. MARINA plans to integrate the study’s business models into its investment portfolio to attract international and domestic partners.
Ninan Biju of the World Bank underscored that decarbonization is not just an environmental goal but a developmental one, noting that efficient maritime transport is vital for Philippine connectivity.
The workshop was attended by key diplomatic and industry leaders, including First Secretary Daniel Simson of the Australian Embassy, World Bank Philippines Transport Program Coordinator John Richardson, and representatives from the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Shippers’ Protection Office (SHAP), and the Philippine Inter-island Shipping Association (PISA).
MARINA will continue to serve as the lead supporting body, coordinating the regulatory and operational frameworks necessary to bring these sustainable pilot projects to reality across the archipelago.
