New Marina chief appointed

MANILA, Philippines - Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya on Tuesday announced that he has appointed an expert in maritime law and policy as the new administrator of the Maritime and Industry Authority (Marina).

Newly appointed Marina chief Maximo Mejia Jr. took his oath before Abaya last Monday, replacing lawyer Nic Conti who acted as officer in charge.

"I have tasked Professor Mejia to bring Marina up to par with international standards in all aspects of the Philippine maritime sector. His credentials and mastery of the industry give me full faith in his ability to do just that," Abaya said.

For his part, Mejia expressed gratitude for the appointment and his readiness to serve.

"I am grateful for the confidence bestowed upon me by President Aquino and Secretary Abaya. I wish to acknowledge the men and women of Marina for their dedication in promoting the safety, security, productivity, and economic viability of shipping.  I know of their tremendous efforts in preparing for the EMSA (European Maritime Safety Agency) audit on our country's STCW [Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping] compliance.

"I look forward to joining their ranks in providing the Filipino people with the service they truly deserve," he said.

From 1998 to 2013, Mejia taught post-graduate studies in maritime transport safety, security, and environmental protection at World Maritime University in Malmö, Sweden, where he was also Head of Maritime Law and Policy.

Prior to this, he served in the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Navy in various capacities from 1988 up to 1998, when he was seconded to the Office of the President to act as Deputy Executive Director for the Secretariat of the Multi-Sectoral Task Force on Maritime Development.