Marina pushes four priority maritime bills

Marina pushes four priority maritime bills
Genivi Verdejo September 17, 2025 https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/09/17/business/maritime/marina-pushes-f...

Shipowners/operators, ship management associations and other maritime stakeholders actively participate in the meeting held at Marina Central Office and hosted by Overseas Shipping Service director Engr. Ramon Hernandez. PHOTO FROM MARINA
THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) is advancing four priority measures to strengthen the country’s ship registry and shipbuilding sector.

In separate consultations with stakeholders, Marina outlined the Philippine International Ship Registration Bill, the Philippine International Shipping Fiscal Incentives Bill, the Shipbuilding and Ship Repair (SBSR) Development Bill, and the SBSR Fiscal Incentives Bill.

Overseas Shipping Service Director Engr. Ramon Hernandez said the Ship Registration Bill will set clear rules for vessel registration and reflagging, recognize ship mortgages under international law, limit shipowner liabilities, streamline inter-agency processes, and offer incentives to lower business costs.

The Ship Registration Bill sets a framework for vessels flying the Philippine flag, while the Shipping Fiscal Incentives Bill provides tax and financial benefits to attract more international vessels.