In an unprecedented move, a candidate eyeing the presidency has shown his keen determination in making the maritime industry among his top policy priorities.
Sec. Mar Roxas and Rep. Jess Manalo flash thumbs up signs after the maritime party representative gave the cabinet secretary a tour of “Island Evisa,” the first steel hull trimaran designed and built by Filipinos.
NAVOTAS CITY—Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas expressed his support towards the adoption of a government maritime program during the ANGKLA Party-list membership assembly.
This commitment was expressed after ANGKLA Party-list Representative Jesulito A. Manalo gave Sec. Roxas a tour around RRT shipyard and aboard “Island Evisa,” the first steel trimaran designed and built by Filipinos.
Rep. Manalo invited Sec. Roxas to engage in a sectoral dialogue to give the latter a glimpse of his maritime vision– world class vessels built by world class Filipino shipbuilders in the Philippines, manned by world class Filipino crew, registered in the Philippine shipping registry, managed by Philippine ship management companies, and eventually, owned by Filipinos.
Rep. Manalo’s idea was positively received by the DILG Secretary who expressed interest in reaching out to the maritime sector. He wanted to seek advice from the industry on how government can aid to fully develop the Philippines’ shipbuilding capability. He also he wanted to know how to improve and produce modern, safe, and efficient domestic vessels for Philippine use.
Rep. Manalo (center) passionately discusses his maritime vision with Sec. Roxas (right). Also in photo is Society of Naval Architects and Maritime Engineers Chairman Engr. Sammuel Lim (left), one of the brains behind ‘Island Evisa’.
The maritime party was the first sector sought by Sec. Roxas after he was anointed Liberal Party standard bearer by President Benigno Aquino III.
This move is viewed by the industry as a compelling confirmation of the maritime industry’s potential to boost inclusive economic growth and a recognition of the country’s capability to become the premier maritime nation.
ANGKLA Party-list represents a vast constituency of around 5 million members of the maritime workforce and their dependents.