Marcos approves 10-year Maritime Industry Development Plan

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. addresses the maritime sector during the Philippine Maritime Industry Summit 2023 hosted by the Maritime Industry Authority at the Manila Hotel on Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023. PHOTO by CIH

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the 10-year Maritime Industry Development Plan 2028 (MIDP) which will serve as the country’s roadmap for the integrated development of the maritime industry, Malacañang said Tuesday.

The President, through Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, signed on February 8 Executive Order (EO) 55 approving and adopting the MIDP.

“To fully realize our potential as a maritime nation, the country requires a clearly defined and coordinated roadmap that shall accelerate the integrated development of the Philippine Maritime Industry,” Marcos said.

The MIDP “envisions a strong and reliable Philippine Merchant Fleet,” which addresses sea transport requirements in support of national development.

He said the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Board shall adopt a system for the effective implementation, monitoring and review of the MIDP and its component programs, which include modernization and expansion of domestic shipping and promotion, expansion of the overseas shipping industry.

The modernization, expansion and promotion of shipbuilding and ship repair industry; promotion of highly-skilled and competitive maritime workforce; enhancement of maritime transport safety and security; and promotion of environmentally sustainable maritime industry are also part of the component programs.

EO 55, which was released to the public on Tuesday, shall take effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.