Oducado backs stronger Philippine Ship Registry to boost maritime presence

Oducado backs stronger Philippine Ship Registry to boost maritime presence
Genivi Verdejo https://www.msn.com/en-ph/news/money/oducado-backs-stronger-philippine-s...

1TAHANAN Party-list Rep. Nathaniel “Atty. Nat” Oducado and the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) have committed to strengthening the Philippine Ship Registry, identifying it as a key legislative priority.

“Strengthening this sector is not just beneficial for us, it is essential to the country’s national development,” Oducado said during a recent meeting with Marina officials, as both parties aim to elevate the country’s maritime profile and economic competitiveness.
call to action icon

Marina said a revitalized ship registry would not only expand the number of Philippine-flagged ships but also enhance the country’s reputation in the global shipping industry.

“This is one of the legislative priorities I am determined to push forward,” Oducado added. “A strong maritime industry is crucial not only in boosting our economy through trade and transportation, but also in creating jobs, driving regional development, and strengthening national security.”

The registry reform is part of a broader agenda to support maritime growth, including initiatives to enhance shipbuilding, ship repair, and seafarer development. Marina officials underscored the registry’s role in encouraging domestic vessel registration, improving regulatory oversight, and generating greater economic value from Filipino-owned fleets.

“The Philippines is among the world’s top shipbuilding nations, producing 805,938 gross tonnage. We have deep-water resources ideal for ports and shipyards, and a rich history of seafaring and shipbuilding,” Oducado noted. Marina data also showed that the country had 578,672 seafarers as of 2023, reinforcing its role as a premier source of sea-based manpower.