PH ready to lead in sustainable maritime transport — Marcos

The Philippines is ready for the global transition towards sustainable maritime transport, President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. said Thursday. 

Marcos made the commitment at the naming and delivery ceremony of the Hull No. SC443 — an 81,200-metric ton, dual-fuel methanol-powered KAMSARMAX bulk carrier — in Balamban, Cebu.

''The Philippines is ready to lead in the global transition towards low-carbon and sustainable maritime transport,'' Marcos said.

''This occasion not only celebrates the launching of a vessel; it is also a celebration of progress and of innovation. And above all, we celebrate the Filipino capacity to rise to the challenge of a rapidly changing world,'' he added. 

According to Marcos, he has named this vessel as ''Brave Pioneer.''

Marcos noted that while the project was a product of bilateral cooperation, this showcased Filipino craftsmanship, ingenuity, and competitiveness.

''It proves, once again, that what is made in the Philippines can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best of anywhere in the world,'' Marcos said.

He said this places the Philippines firmly on the map as a future-ready maritime manufacturing hub that is aligned with International Maritime Organization decarbonization targets and global sustainability standards.

In 2024, the Philippines constructed 484 vessels, from fishing boats to passenger and cargo ships, according to Marcos.

He vowed that his administration remains fully committed to strengthening the shipbuilding and ship repair industry by enhancing its competitiveness, sustainability, and strategic capacity.

In relation to this project, Marcos said the collaboration between Japan and the Philippines—between the Tsuneishi Group and the Aboitiz Group—brings together advanced ship design, skilled Filipino labor, and a robust domestic manufacturing base. 

The KAMSARMAX Vessel SC-443 is designed to significantly reduce emission of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur oxides.

This is expected to reduce emission of carbon dioxide by 10%, nitrogen oxides by 80%, and sulfur oxides by 99% compared to conventional models. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News