President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has taken a significant step towards the integrated development of the maritime industry in the Philippines. He recently approved the 10-year Maritime Industry Development Plan 2028 (MIDP), which will serve as the country’s roadmap for progress in this sector. This move, announced by Malacañang on Tuesday, highlights the government’s commitment to fostering growth and ensuring a strong and reliable Philippine Merchant Fleet.
The approval of the MIDP came through Executive Order (EO) 55, signed by the President and facilitated by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on February 8. This executive order not only approves the plan but also adopts it as an official framework for the development of the maritime industry in the Philippines.
President Marcos emphasized the importance of having a well-defined and coordinated roadmap to accelerate the integrated development of the Philippine Maritime Industry. He recognized that to fully realize the country’s potential as a maritime nation, a comprehensive plan is necessary. The MIDP will provide the necessary guidance and direction to address the sea transport requirements that support national development.
Under the MIDP, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Board will play a crucial role in implementing, monitoring, and reviewing the plan and its component programs. These programs encompass various aspects of the maritime industry, including the modernization and expansion of domestic shipping, the promotion and expansion of the overseas shipping industry, and the development of the shipbuilding and ship repair industry.
Additionally, the MIDP focuses on the promotion of a highly-skilled and competitive maritime workforce, enhancing maritime transport safety and security, and fostering an environmentally sustainable maritime industry. These components reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring the long-term growth and sustainability of the maritime sector.
EO 55, which was made public on Tuesday, will take immediate effect upon its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation. This demonstrates the government’s urgency in implementing the MIDP and kickstarting the development initiatives outlined in the plan.
The approval of the 10-year Maritime Industry Development Plan 2028 marks a significant milestone for the maritime industry in the Philippines. It sets the stage for a more robust and prosperous future, ensuring that the country’s maritime sector remains competitive on a global scale. With a clear roadmap in place, the Philippines can now forge ahead with confidence, leveraging its maritime resources and capabilities to drive economic growth and meet the evolving needs of the industry.
In conclusion, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s approval of the 10-year Maritime Industry Development Plan 2028 is a testament to the government’s commitment to the integrated development of the maritime industry in the Philippines. The MIDP provides a comprehensive roadmap that will guide the growth and progress of this vital sector, ensuring a strong and reliable Philippine Merchant Fleet. As the plan is implemented, the country can look forward to a more modern, efficient, and sustainable maritime industry that will contribute significantly to national development.
Source: The Manila Times