PHL Shipbuilding Industry to Take Center Stage at Asia Forum

The world’s fourth largest shipbuilding country is ready to impress at this year’s Asia Pacific Maritime (APM) that’s going to be held in Singapore from March 14 to 16.

The Philippines is expected to take center stage at the 15th APM, Southeast Asia’s Largest Maritime and Offshore Exhibition, by highlighting its strategic location, growth potential, and opportunities in both domestic and international shipping. All of these are the foundation the country needs to become a major player in the maritime industry.

The event will gather leaders and experts from the global maritime industry and will look into major industry trends and issues happening in the Asia Pacific Region. Discussions on developments and opportunities will also take place as well as sharing of insights and forecasts on Asia Pacific’s maritime, workboat, and offshore industries.

Integrated development initiatives have been drafted by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA). The 10-year Maritime Industry Development Program (MIDP 2018-2028) covers maritime administration, maritime manpower, shipbuilding, domestic and overseas shipping, ship repair, and ship breaking. It is expected to be approved by President Rodrigo Duterte and will be rolled out in 2018.

“It is good that the Philippines has laid out a strategic long-term plan like the MIDP 2018-2028; but constant review must be undertaken to assess the effectiveness of its implementation. This will help the country live up to its optimal potential as a shipbuilding nation to match the huge demand for ships, and its prowess as a global seafaring powerhouse,” said Nazery Khalid, Honorary Secretary, Association of Marine Industries Malaysia and Head of Planning & Development, Boustead Heavy Industries Corporation.

“The Philippine economy is experiencing one of the highest growth rates in the region, averaging between five percent to seven percent annually. The local maritime industry is expected to grow proportionally with the economy, however the positive outlook on the economy has also attracted increased competition.  As with any growing economy, there are tremendous opportunities for the marine industry, especially for an archipelago like the Philippines with over 7,000 islands and where links between the islands are mainly by sea and air,” added Pauline G. Ngo, CEO of Dynamic Power Marine & Industrial Hardware, Inc.

The Philippines has tremendous potential for the maritime industry, and this will be highlighted in the three-day conference. Marine fuels, latest hybrid technologies, and other offshore prospects will also be examined by maritime leaders from all over the world.

via Manila Bulletin / Bernie Cahiles-Magkilat