THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) recently welcomed Geraldine Foregeard as the new French maritime expert (FME), succeeding Emeric Faure, whose two-year term concluded in October 2024.
Foregeard’s role is part of Marina’s collaboration with the French Embassy to the Philippines, formalized under a renewed memorandum of agreement (MOA) to advance the Philippine maritime sector.
The turnover ceremony on October 28, 2024, at Marina’s central office in Manila marked a continued commitment to the partnership between Marina and France. The renewed MOA emphasizes the importance of technical assistance, training, and consultancy in fostering a more sustainable, progressive maritime industry.
Geraldine Foregeard, the new French maritime expert, is welcomed by Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan. PHOTO FROM MARINA
Foregeard’s appointment as FME underscores the MOA’s focus on safety and sustainable growth. As part of her responsibilities, she is expected to build upon the progress achieved by her predecessor, especially in areas related to domestic fleet safety and the advancement of the maritime sector.
Marina administrator Sonia Malaluan expressed appreciation for Faure’s contributions during his term. Faure was pivotal in elevating safety standards in the roll-on/roll-off passenger fleet and in developing key updates to the Maritime Industry Development Plan 2028. This plan, aimed at improving safety and operational efficiency, reflects Marina’s commitment to building a robust maritime sector.
“The partnership between the two countries has been proven effective. This collaboration is more than an exchange of expertise; it symbolizes a shared commitment to ensuring safer seas and a brighter future for the maritime industry,” Malaluan said.
Foregeard conveyed her dedication to continuing Faure’s work, particularly in enhancing safety levels for the domestic fleet and contributing to Marina’s broader development goals.
The turnover ceremony was attended by Alain Fontanel, head of the economic service at the French Embassy; Nenita Atienza, Marina deputy administrator for planning; Ramon Hernandez, director of the Shipyards Regulation Service; and Sharon de Chavez-Aledo, director of the Legal Service.
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