27/10/2026
𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐀 𝐕𝐈𝐈 𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐒 𝐏𝐂𝐒𝐀 𝐃𝐈𝐀𝐋𝐎𝐆𝐔𝐄 𝐎𝐍 𝐋𝐎𝐖𝐄𝐑 𝐋𝐎𝐆𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐒𝐓𝐒, 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐑 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐘
23 October 2026 — The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Regional Office VII participated in the Philippine Coastwise Shipping Association (PCSA) General Membership Meeting, themed “One Nation, One Network: Lower Logistical Costs, Lower Inflation,” held at NUSTAR Resort Cebu, Kawit Island, South Road Properties, Cebu City. The meeting brought together government representatives, maritime industry stakeholders, and business organizations to discuss measures to improve logistics efficiency and strengthen connectivity across the country.
Represented by Regional Director Engr. Ronaldo P. Bandalaria, MARINA VII joined discussions on pressing concerns affecting domestic shipping and the broader logistics sector. The meeting highlighted the importance of coordinated action among government agencies and industry stakeholders in addressing operational challenges that influence the movement of goods and passengers, particularly in an archipelagic country where maritime transport plays a vital role in economic activity.
Among the key issues raised were high port and cargo-handling charges, rural terminal fees, rising fuel costs, road congestion, and the need to expand and improve ship repair facilities. Participants also discussed regulatory and permitting challenges that may hinder investments in shipbuilding and ship repair, including proposals to develop maritime industrial parks in Cebu.
These concerns underscore the importance of an enabling regulatory environment and adequate maritime infrastructure in supporting domestic shipping operations. Improved access to ship repair facilities, for instance, could help address vessel maintenance backlogs, reduce the need to send vessels abroad for repairs, and create opportunities for local employment and related industries.
The discussions likewise highlighted the potential of shore power in ports as a practical measure toward a more environmentally sustainable maritime industry. By allowing docked vessels to use shore-based electricity instead of relying on onboard generators, this initiative could help reduce emissions while supporting the sector’s transition toward lower-carbon operations.
Another significant matter raised was the need to improve weather-related advisories and vessel suspension protocols. Participants discussed the development of marine-specific wind and wave warning measures, emphasizing the importance of considering actual marine conditions and vessel safety in decisions affecting domestic voyages. Further consultations with the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) were identified as part of the ongoing dialogue on this concern.
For MARINA, participation in industry consultations such as the PCSA meeting provides an opportunity to hear stakeholders’ operational concerns, better understand emerging industry needs, and contribute to discussions relevant to maritime policy and development. Such engagement supports informed coordination among concerned agencies and stakeholders, while recognizing that proposed measures require appropriate evaluation and action by the authorities concerned.
The meeting reinforced the importance of addressing logistics challenges through stronger collaboration between government and the maritime industry. More efficient domestic shipping and improved intermodal connectivity can help facilitate the movement of essential commodities, improve access between islands, support business competitiveness, and contribute to the welfare of Filipino consumers.
Through continued engagement with the maritime sector, MARINA VII supports dialogue and initiatives aligned with the development of a safe, efficient, reliable, and sustainable Philippine maritime industry.
