President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. joined the Tsuneishi Group Corporation in the naming and delivery ceremony of Hull No. SC443, an 81,200-metric ton, dual-fuel methanol-powered KAMSARMAX bulk carrier, in Balamban, Cebu on Thursday, January 15, 2026. 

During the President’s working visit to Osaka, Japan in June 2025, he met with company executives to discuss Tsuneishi’s plans in the Philippines, which included the ceremonial event for the said bulk carrier. 

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the dual-fuel methanol-powered KAMSARMAX bulk carrier is the world’s first of its kind.

“It is a large cargo vessel capable of operating on both methanol and conventional fuels, significantly reducing emissions compared to traditional ships,” a press statement read.

Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. is one of the world’s leading shipbuilders, specializing in the construction of bulk carriers, container ships and tankers.

The company operates shipyards in the Philippines, Japan, and China, with business offices across Asia and Europe. It is also among the pioneers in the research and development of methanol-fueled bulk carriers — an important milestone toward achieving zero-emission vessels. 

“With over three decades of operations at West Cebu Estate, Tsuneishi has launched nearly 400 ships and delivered over 370 vessels worldwide. This highlights Filipino shipbuilders’ exceptional craftsmanship, enabled by Aboitiz InfraCapital’s Economic Estates’ robust infrastructure and integrated support ecosystem,” the press statement added.