The Philippines is charting a course toward sustainable shipping as the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) partners with global logistics leader Maersk to accelerate the maritime sector’s energy transition.

Through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on March 25 at the MARINA Central Office in Manila, both parties aim to promote sustainable practices, environmental stewardship, and the use of alternative fuels — positioning the Philippines at the forefront of global maritime decarbonization.

The partnership covers a range of initiatives, including ship visits, shipboard familiarization programs for lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emission fuels, skills development for Filipino seafarers handling methanol-powered vessels, and research on alternative fuels such as methanol. It also involves technical workshops, expert consultations, and efforts to enhance local regulatory frameworks supporting the energy transition.

MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan emphasized the partnership’s significance in strengthening the country’s capacity to address GHG reduction measures.

“This partnership is a significant step for MARINA personnel to get the much-needed knowledge, deeper understanding, and exposure to the use of alternative fuels from the global shipping leaders and first movers in the use of methanol as fuel,” Malaluan said.

“This initiative will boost MARINA’s capacity to develop regulatory frameworks and implement measures to support energy transition. By working together, we are not only fostering innovation and capacity building but also ensuring that the Philippines remains a leader in the global push for sustainable and responsible shipping,” she added.

Maersk’s role in global shipping decarbonization

As a global logistics powerhouse, Maersk continues to lead efforts in decarbonizing international shipping through its fleet of 12 dual-fuel methanol ships and its commitment to energy-efficient technologies. The company’s partnership with MARINA reflects its dedication to reducing GHG emissions while upskilling its workforce.

“Close to 40 percent of Maersk’s seafarers are Filipinos, and they will be increasingly working onboard ships capable of using alternative fuels,” said Gungor Ates, Maersk’s owners’ representative to the Philippines. 

“We are pleased to support MARINA in further understanding the use of alternative fuels like methanol, enhancing training standards and related policies. This also reaffirms our commitment to the importance of upskilling our crew and supporting the Philippines.”

MARINA sees the MOU as a milestone toward greater innovation and collaboration, with both parties working hand in hand to build a more resilient and environmentally conscious maritime industry.

For its part, Maersk described the signing as the beginning of a partnership aimed at driving maritime decarbonization, reinforcing the Philippines’ role in promoting energy-efficient shipping and building a resilient maritime future.

Reforms for seafarers, passenger safety

The Department of Transportation has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing reforms that improve the welfare of Filipino seafarers and enhance passenger safety.

During his visit to the MARINA’s office on March 25, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon stressed the importance of simplifying processes to ease the burden on seafarers.

“We must think outside the box to make life easier for our modern-day heroes — our seafarers. If we need to remove or cut unnecessary procedures, do it,” Dizon said.

He also underscored the need to prioritize passenger safety. “At the same time, we must ensure vessels have proper insurance coverage. These are the President’s priorities for the maritime sector. We will fully support MARINA in implementing such reforms,” he added.

Dizon emphasized the importance of requiring third-party insurance coverage to protect cargo and ensure ship protection in maritime incidents.

Malaluan expressed gratitude for Dizon’s appreciation of the agency’s complex functions and his commitment to supporting its initiatives. She reaffirmed the shared goal of prioritizing seafarers’ welfare and enhancing passenger safety.

Maritime safety collaboration

In another show of unity, MARINA and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reinforced their commitment to maritime safety and security during the 3rd MARINA-PCG Forum in Davao City on March 26.

Malaluan underscored the importance of collaboration between the implementing and enforcement units of both agencies.

“The ultimate goal is a safer and more efficient voyage at sea, which upholds the highest standard of maritime safety with open communication, shared responsibility, and mutual trust,” Malaluan said on Thursday, March 27.

The forum tackled key issues, including information sharing, digitalization, and effective maritime policy enforcement. Discussions focused on policy harmonization, maritime safety, and regulatory streamlining to boost industry efficiency and security.

During the event, both agencies also agreed to include the Bangsamoro Maritime Industry Authority (BMARINA) as a regular forum member.

According to Malaluan, BMARINA’s inclusion made the forum a “truly harmonized and uniform implementation and enforcement of rules and regulations.”

Photo credit: Maersk. Philippines’ MARINA Administrator Sonia Malaluan (second from left) and Maersk Owners’ Representative Gungor Ates (second from right) seal a partnership on March 25, 2025, to promote alternative fuel use in the maritime industry.