The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has called on maritime agencies and stakeholders to align their efforts with the Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) 2028.
Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista emphasized the importance of anchoring initiatives to this comprehensive roadmap, saying that it will generate greater impact in harnessing the full potential of the blue economy.
“I urge our maritime agencies and stakeholders to anchor their initiatives to this plan that should serve as road map, or rather as sea map, binding together our individual efforts,” he said.
The call was directed to key entities, including the Philippine Coast Guard, Maritime Industry Authority, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, Cebu Port Authority, and various maritime stakeholders.
The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) is currently implementing the MIDP 2028, with pronounced emphasis on the goal of championing the concept of the “blue economy.”
The blue economy framework encompasses a wide range of maritime and coastal activities. The core idea behind the blue economy is stewardship of the ocean, ensuring that the benefits derived from its waters are balanced with efforts to preserve its health.
“By embracing the concept of the Blue Economy, we contribute to global efforts in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity,” Bautista said.
Embracing the concept of the blue economy, the transport secretary highlighted its broader scope, extending beyond traditional economic growth. He emphasized its role in contributing to global efforts to combat climate change and preserve biodiversity.
The MIDP comprises several strategies and specific program components, aiming to enhance policies and regulatory frameworks, promote research and development, and ensure compliance with international conventions and national regulations for marine environmental protection.
This program seeks to establish a sustainable maritime industry, creating green jobs and redoubling efforts to protect the environment.
Under the MIDP 2028, the Philippines aims to cut by half the number of marine pollution related illnesses/cases, solid waste from ships, and liquid waste from ships in the next five years.
Furthermore, the country aims to reduce the percentage of greenhouse gas emissions from Philippine flag vessels by 30 percent by 2028.