The 9th Edition of PhilMarine 2024 has officially commenced at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, attracting an impressive international gathering of maritime, shipbuilding, and offshore industry professionals. This year’s event from 19-21 June 2024, features the theme “Charting the Course to a Sustainable Maritime Industry: Innovation, Technology, and Collaboration,” has drawn participants from 15 countries and 305 exhibitors.

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and Fireworks Trade Exhibitions and Conferences Philippines Inc. host the three-day expo, which aims to bolster the country’s standing as one of the top five (5) shipbuilding nation by showcasing cutting-edge maritime technology and advancements in shipbuilding and offshore industries. The event also provides a vital platform for industry leaders to share knowledge, foster innovation, and discuss the future of maritime technology.

A key highlight of the event is the International Technical Maritime Conference, which spans all three days. The first two days are hosted by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), and the third day is led by the Ship Managers Association of the Philippines (SMAP) and the Marine and Technical Superintendent Association of the Philippines (MTSAP). In parallel, seminars and training sessions are conducted by Fireworks Trade Exhibitions and Conferences Philippines, Inc. on the first two days, and by the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers, Inc. (SONAME) on the third day.

During the opening ceremony, MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan emphasized the expo’s significance “in gathering an international congregation of maritime professionals, service providers and product manufacturers/developers to showcase the latest developments in shipbuilding and the maritime industry in general”

Meanwhile, in his keynote speech, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Assistant Secretary Atty. Julius A. Yano stressed that the DOTr-Maritime Sector is “fully committed to supporting the growth and development of the maritime industry in the Philippines. We are actively pursuing initiatives to enhance maritime infrastructure, streamline regulations, and promote sustainable practices.”