Davao City
February 6, 2024
The Department of Transportation (DOTr), through its Maritime Sector, presents the accomplishments and priority programs of the country’s maritime industry under ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ as it holds its town hall meeting in celebration of the Agency’s 125th Founding Anniversary at the Waterfront Insular Hotel in Davao City on February 6, 2024.
The town hall meeting serves as a venue for various attached agencies, stakeholders and key partners to exchange discussions on ways to improve the country’s maritime industry as the government continuously upholds its commitment of providing a more progressive, sustainable and resilient maritime sector.
In his speech, DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista urges maritime agencies to anchor their plans to the Maritime Industry Development Plan (MIDP) that will serve as the ‘sea map’ amidst current maritime challenges. In particular, the Secretary encourages these agencies to harness the rich potentials of the Blue Economy, which is a concept that not only advances economic growth, but contributes to global efforts in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity.
“For centuries, our oceans have been source of sustenance, livelihood, and cultural significance… I have tasked the Department’s attached maritime agencies to consistently follow the principles of the Blue Economy Framework through initiatives aligned with the formulation and dynamics of the ASEAN Blue Economy Framework,” Secretary Bautista conveys.
The Secretary also highlights four (4) focus areas that will serve as basis to which initiatives are anchored. These include building seamless maritime transport connectivity, modernized Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), lower logistics costs and streamlining of government process, and world-class maritime education.
“It is time that we make the Philippine maritime industry a top priority. Looking ahead, our role should include discovering and adopting sustainable practices and ecosystem conservation among coastal communities, fisherfolks, and maritime stakeholders,” he states.
“The path forward is clear. Let us work towards a maritime industry that not only meets the immediate needs of our people but also ensures sustainable and secure future for generations to come,” Secretary Bautista adds.
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