Central Maritime Administration created through EO 75

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine delegation to the IMO Plenary Session of the STW 43 officially announced the signing into effect of Executive Order 75 by President Aquino, creating a single Central Maritime Administration under the Department of Transportation and Communication, to be carried out through the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina).

Ambassador to Spain Carlos C. Salinas made the announcement on behalf of the government during the event at the IMO Headquarters in London in the presence of IMO Secretary-General Koji Sekimizu and chairman of STW 43, Adm. Peter Brady of Jamaica. He mentioned that through this directive, President Aquino has laid the groundwork for the country to proceed immediately and decisively, ensuring full compliance with the STCW Code.

This action is a commitment of President Aquino and also includes the support of all other government agencies that touch upon the maritime sector – the Department of Labor and Employment and its line and attached agencies; the Commission of Higher Education, the Professional Regulation Commission, Department of Health – as well as the private sector.

“As the major source of global maritime professionals, the Philippines recognizes the strategic role and responsibility it plays in the international shipping industry.  With this announcement today, the Philippines reiterates its readiness and commitment to move forward and deliver on its responsibilities within the context of the STCW Code, particularly the 2010 Manila Amendments that covers matters relative to seafarers and safe shipping. This will include the strict monitoring of the education, training, and certification of maritime professionals, as well as, the registration and control of both the Philippine domestic and international fleet,” announced Ambassador Salinas.

The new MARINA, will be fully operational in this new form 30 days from the signing of the executive order. The next phase of this total effort will be the passage of legislation through both Houses of Congress to institutionalize the new single central maritime authority and to sustain its direction.