France to aid PH shipbuilding industry
THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and the French Embassy in the Philippines convened to explore collaboration in the maritime sector, with focus on shipbuilding and ship repair (SBSR), ship registry, maritime safety, and marine environment protection.
Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan and French Ambassador Marie Fontanel discussed the significance of legislation aimed at enhancing SBSR and ship registry sectors. This legislative initiative is seen as pivotal for advancing the competitiveness and capability of maritime industries on a global scale.
They also tackled potential collaborations with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) regarding a peer review of the Philippine SBSR sector. This initiative underscores the commitment to benchmarking against international best practices and standards.
Also discussed was the digitalization project initiated by Marina which Malaluan said will streamline frontline services.
Digitalization is expected to bolster the enforcement of safety regulations, thereby contributing to enhancing maritime safety standards across the Philippines.
Marina sought an extension for the deployment of the French Maritime Expert (FME), who has been providing technical assistance to the agency since November 2022.
Collaborative efforts between Marina and the FME have included a concentrated campaign to enhance the Ropax Fleet Safety Level, demonstrating the effectiveness of international partnerships in promoting maritime safety.
Additionally, plans were made for the “2nd PH-French Maritime Technical Cooperation Day” to coincide with the 9th Philmarine event scheduled for June 19-21, 2024.
Marina will communicate a draft memorandum of agreement to facilitate further discussions and collaboration with French officials and outline the scope and modalities of cooperation, ensuring clarity and alignment of objectives between the two parties.