Ex-Navy commander Bernabe takes over as Marina OIC-Administrator

Ex-Navy commander Bernabe takes over as Marina OIC-Administrator
Martin Sadongdong Oct 30, 2026 https://mb.com.ph/2026/10/30/ex-navy-commander-bernabe-takes-over-as-mar...

A retired Philippine Navy commander and former transport executive assumed top leadership of the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) on Friday, Oct. 30.

Rear Admiral Loumer P. Bernabe, PN (Ret.), who previously served as the agency’s Deputy Administrator for Operations, took over as Officer-in-Charge Administrator to oversee operations and direct industry initiatives.
He replaced long-time public servant Sonia Malaluan, who informed the Office of the President (OP) earlier this month of her plan to retire after almost 37 years of service in the maritime industry.

“A distinguished military leader and seasoned public servant, Rear Admiral Loumer P. Bernabe, PN (Ret.), brings decades of experience in maritime operations, strategic leadership, and public administration to the Maritime Industry Authority,” Marina said as it welcomed Bernabe’s assumption.

Bernabe will now oversee the agency's operations and continue implementing programs and initiatives for the country's maritime industry in his new position.

His appointment came as Marina faces major challenges involving maritime safety, seafarer documentation, and the delivery of services to the shipping sector.

The agency recently faced scrutiny following a cyberattack on Aug. 13 that disrupted the processing of Seafarer's Identity Documents (SID) and Seafarer's Record Books (SRB).

It also came under public attention following the sinking of MV June Aster on Sept. 9, which claimed 77 lives and left 12 people missing.

Bernabe, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Hinirang” Class of 1987, brings extensive military leadership experience to the agency.

During his career in the military, he held several key positions, including commander of Naval Forces Central, chief of naval staff, commander of the Naval Education, Training and Doctrines Command, and commander of the Philippine Fleet.

After retiring from active military service, he continued working in government at the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

He served as the LTFRB’s regional director for Regions IV-B and IV-A before becoming the agency's executive director. Eventually, his experience in transportation regulation preceded his appointment as Marina deputy administrator for operations.