Marcos adopts 10-year Maritime Industry Development Plan

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has given his approval to the 10-year Maritime Industry Development Plan 2028 (MIDP), which has been designated as the country’s blueprint for the holistic advancement of the maritime sector, as confirmed by Malacañang on Tuesday.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, acting on behalf of the President, signed Executive Order (EO) 55 on February 8, officially endorsing and adopting the MIDP.

In expressing his support for the MIDP, Marcos emphasized the crucial need for a well-defined and coordinated roadmap to propel the integrated growth of the Philippine maritime industry. He highlighted that the MIDP aims to establish a robust and dependable Philippine Merchant Fleet, catering to the nation’s sea transport needs and bolstering national development efforts.

The implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the MIDP and its various component programs will be overseen by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) Board. These programs encompass the modernization and expansion of domestic shipping, the facilitation and expansion of the overseas shipping sector, the advancement of shipbuilding and ship repair industries, the cultivation of a highly skilled and competitive maritime workforce, the enhancement of maritime transport safety and security, and the promotion of environmentally sustainable practices within the maritime sector.

EO 55, which was made public on Tuesday, will come into effect immediately upon its publication in the Official Gazette or in a widely circulated newspaper.