The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and the University of Cebu-Maritime Education and Training Center (UC-METC) have signed an agreement that aims to “elevate” maritime research in the Philippines.
The pact aims to spearhead innovative research initiatives, specifically targeting the analysis and classification of seawater typologies across various Philippine regions, Marina Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan said.
This initiative will encompass comprehensive biophysical surveys and oceanographic sampling efforts in areas, including Batanes, Samar, Palawan, Iloilo, Romblon, Cebu, Surigao, and Zamboanga del Norte, marking a comprehensive effort to map and understand the maritime environment of the Philippines more effectively.
Malaluan emphasized that the partnership’s goal is to produce a manual that will not only categorize seawater typologies across the Philippines but also offer guidance on hull geometry and design to mitigate maritime accidents and enhance safety nationwide.
She said this collaboration reflects Marina’s strategic vision to leverage the expertise of academic institutions and industry stakeholders to drive innovation and safety in the Philippine maritime sector, promising a future where maritime research and development play a central role in the industry’s growth and sustainability.
The agreement was signed at UC-METC’s Maritime Campus on January 27.