TOKYO: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Sonia Malaluan as the new administrator of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), according to an announcement made by Malacañang on Friday.
Malaluan will be replacing Hernani Fabia, who recently tendered his resignation, as confirmed by Presidential Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil.
“In appointing Malaluan, President Marcos cited her remarkable training and experience in economics, technology, finance, law, management, public utility, and other aspects of the maritime industry,” stated Garafil in a press release.
Prior to her appointment as MARINA chief, Malaluan served as the agency’s deputy administrator for Planning starting from November 23, 2022, upon the recommendation of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista.
She has also held various positions within MARINA, including Director 2 from May 2014 to November 2022, maritime attaché to London in 2018, chief accountant from December 2001 to April 2014, and chief transportation development officer from February to December 2001.
Malaluan, a certified public accountant, earned her Bachelor of Science in Commerce degree from the Western Philippine College in 1987. She further pursued her education and obtained a Master’s degree in Science in Shipping Management from the World Maritime University in Sweden in 1998.
In addition, she also holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Singapore’s National University, Lee Kwan Yew School of Public Policy, which she completed in 2011.
MARINA, an attached agency of the Department of Transportation, has been mandated to adopt and implement a practicable and coordinated Maritime Industry Development Program.
The agency is also responsible for ensuring the effective supervision, regulation, and rationalization of the organizational management, ownership, and operations of all water transport utilities and other maritime enterprises.
With Malaluan’s appointment, President Marcos has placed his trust in her expertise and qualifications, recognizing her extensive knowledge and experience in key areas crucial to the maritime industry’s growth and development.
As the new administrator of MARINA, Malaluan will play a vital role in shaping the future of the maritime industry in the Philippines. Her appointment signifies the government’s commitment to strengthening the sector and ensuring its efficient management and regulation.
Under her leadership, MARINA is expected to continue its efforts in promoting the growth and sustainability of the maritime industry, while prioritizing safety, security, and environmental concerns.
Malaluan’s diverse background and extensive experience in economics, technology, finance, law, management, and public utility will undoubtedly contribute to the agency’s mission of fostering a thriving maritime sector.
With her appointment, the Philippine maritime industry can look forward to innovative approaches, strategic planning, and effective policies that will drive its progress and enhance its global competitiveness.
President Marcos’ decision to appoint Malaluan reflects his administration’s commitment to appointing highly qualified individuals to key positions, ensuring the effective governance and development of vital sectors such as the maritime industry.
As the new administrator of MARINA, Sonia Malaluan will undoubtedly bring her expertise and dedication to the role, steering the agency towards a prosperous future for the Philippine maritime industry.
Source: The Manila Times
