MARITIME Industry Authority (Marina) Adm inistrator Sonia Malaluan declared that maritime safety was non-negotiable and must always be the top priority.
During the focus group discussion (FGD) held at Prince Hotel, Manila, and attended by 160 dedicated Marina personnel, Malaluan emphasized the need for vigilance and a relentless commitment to safeguarding lives and property at sea.
The FGD was a key initiative to strengthen the agency’s safety protocols, focusing on evaluating and enhancing the capabilities of Marina’s technical personnel. It aimed to ensure a unified understanding and application of stringent maritime safety standards governing the inspection and survey of domestic ships.
Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan. FILE PHOTO
Participants, divided into 12 groups, conducted rigorous analyses to identify the root causes of maritime incidents — such as capsizing, fires, groundings and collisions — and to develop effective preventive strategies.
“Safety is our utmost priority, and it is crucial that we recognize and address issues head-on,” Malaluan emphasized, urging participants to remain open to new approaches that could further bolster maritime safety.
She stressed the critical responsibilities of Marina surveyors and inspectors, calling for unwavering integrity, competence, and professionalism in their duties.
The discussion also highlighted a crucial point: maritime safety is a shared responsibility that extends beyond the government.
Marina Deputy Administrator for Operations Nannette Villamor-Dinopol praised the depth and seriousness of the discussions, noting that they demonstrated a collective determination to tackle the challenges facing maritime operations.
“Both the government and the private sector play critical roles in upholding the standards that ensure the safety and integrity of our vessels and operations,” she said.
The insights and recommendations from the FGD will undergo further review, leading to a comprehensive action plan. The plan will outline specific responsibilities and implement strategies to prevent future maritime accidents, reinforcing Marina’s commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards across the industry.
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