THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) intensified marine protection efforts with a two-day training on biofouling prevention and management in dry-dock operations on Oct. 16-17, 2024.
Organized by Marina in collaboration with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and Partnerships in Environmental Management for the Seas of East Asia, the training aimed to boost local capacity in combating invasive aquatic species (IAS).
Marina Chief of Staff Ramon Hernandez welcomed international expert Dr. Ralitsa Mihaylova from the IMO, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the country’s waters through international collaboration. “Through collaboration with international and local partners, we are furthering our commitment to a sustainable marine environment,” he said.
Mihaylova, a Safinah Group consultant, detailed the risks IAS and biofouling poses, explaining dry-dock operations and anti-fouling coatings.
Participants also toured dry-docking facilities in Navotas City to observe biofouling prevention.
Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan concluded the training by reaffirming the country’s commitment to marine sustainability, urging full implementation of the 2023 guidelines for managing ship biofouling to curb IAS.
The event was attended by representatives from the Department of Transportation, Marina, the Philippine Coast Guard, maritime associations and shipping companies.
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