The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) has strengthened its long-standing alliance with Kongsberg Maritime AS through the formal renewal of its memorandum of understanding (MOU) and the signing of a new Simulator Software License Agreement. The ceremonial signing took place on Monday at the MARINA Central Office in Manila.
The agreement was signed by MARINA Administrator Ms. Sonia B. Malaluan and Mr. Are Føllesdal Tjønn, Senior Vice President of Kongsberg Maritime AS, alongside key officials and representatives from both organizations.
This renewed partnership reinforces a shared commitment to advancing maritime education, training, assessment, and technological innovation. By leveraging advanced digitalization and simulator-based technologies, the collaboration ensures the Philippine maritime sector remains fully aligned with rigorous international standards.
Under the updated terms, MARINA and Kongsberg Maritime AS will collaborate on strategic initiatives designed to bolster the domestic maritime industry. Key focus areas include competency development, simulator technology integration, and targeted capacity-building programs tailored for Filipino seafarers and maritime professionals.
A central highlight of the event, the Simulator Software License Agreement, directly supports MARINA’s ongoing modernization efforts. Kongsberg Maritime AS will provide advanced simulator software solutions designed to significantly enhance the accuracy, quality, and effectiveness of maritime assessments and training frameworks across the country.
“The renewal of this agreement is essential in ensuring the sustained implementation of our shared programs and collaborative efforts,” said MARINA Administrator Ms. Sonia B. Malaluan. “More than a formal arrangement, this partnership reflects our mutual trust, shared vision, and continuing commitment to advancing excellence in maritime governance, training, and human resource development for the benefit of both the Philippine and global maritime industries.”
Mr. Are Føllesdal Tjønn reaffirmed Kongsberg Maritime AS’s dedication to supporting MARINA’s vision for innovation and excellence. He underscored that investing heavily in professional development and industry innovation is vital to building a safer, more efficient, and globally competitive maritime workforce.
The successful signing ceremony marks another major milestone in the enduring collaboration between MARINA and Kongsberg Maritime AS, positioning the Philippines at the forefront of modern, technology-driven maritime operations.
