1Tahanan Party-list Representative Nathaniel Atty. Nat Oducado has committed to push for legislation that could significantly elevate the Philippine maritime sector.

This, as Oducado met with officials from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) to discuss proposed legislation in the 20th Congress for the improvement of the maritime industry.

Among the key proposals laid out by MARINA is to strengthen the Philippine Ship Registry.

This would allow more Filipino-owned ships to fly our flag proudly while adhering to international standards.

“This is one of the legislative priorities I am determined to push forward, because I believe that a strong maritime industry is crucial not only in boosting economic our economy through trade and transportation, but also in creating jobs, driving regional development, and strengthening national security”, Oducado stressed.

Another highlight of the meeting is the development of the shipbuilding and ship repair (SBSR) industry, which has massive potential to position the Philippines as a hub for maritime innovation and skilled labor in Asia.

“The Philippines is among the top leading shipbuilding group in the world producing 805,938 in gross tonnage (GT). Our country is abundant in deep-water spaces for port and shipyard development. We have a long history in the art of seafaring and shipbuilding”, he added.

Oducado explained that our country is a premier source of sea-based manpower with 578,672 seafarers, based on MARINA’s 2023 statistics.

The lawmaker stressed that the Philippines have shipyards that cater to afloat ship repairers, boatbuilders and shipbreakers in various ports all over the country.

“60% of the shipyards own or utilize shipways and 66% of the 186 shipyards need rehabilitation”.

Furthermore, Rep. Oducado pointed out the Philippines is inherently a maritime country, considering that it is an archipelagic nation composed of over 7,000 islands.

The seas are not just natural borders, but also serve as economic lifelines, strategic assets, and a big part of our culture and identity.

Oducado believes that millions of Filipinos rely on the ocean for their livelihood and mobility, from fishing and shipping to international trade and maritime labor.

“Strengthening this sector is not just beneficial for us, it is essential to the country’s national development”.