The Philippines and France share best practices in the maritime industry, particularly in improving ship registry and ensuring seafarers’ welfare globally amid the crisis in the Middle East.
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), through the Overseas Shipping Service (OSS) in collaboration with the French Government, conducted the MARINA Lecture Series on Maritime Industry Practices of the French Government on 24 April 2026 at the MARINA Central Office.
MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan recognized the value of her agency’s partnership and international cooperation. She expressed appreciation to France for its continuing technical assistance and collaboration that may contribute to enhancing maritime safety and the protection of the marine environment.
Former FME Mr. Faure who is now the Head of the French International Ship Registry’s Office under the General Directorate for Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture of France presented the organizational and regulatory provisions supporting the French flag.
Among the topics discussed are the systems improved by the Registre International Français (RIF), and the administrative costs and tax system adopted to attract investments, drawing parallels to the legislative efforts in the Philippines to establish a more competitive international ship registry. He also discussed matters related to repatriation of Filipino seafarers from high-risk areas among others.
Meanwhile, Migrant Workers Assistant Secretary Jerome Pampolina emphasized the importance of “whole-of-government approach” in crisis response, and protecting the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers.
