The Philippines yesterday affirmed its commitment to comply with international maritime conventions.
Secretary Jaime Bautista of the Department of Transportation, at the opening day of the audit under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS) on October 2, assured the Philippines upholds maritime safety and protection of the marine environment by adhering to international maritime rules and regulations.
“I affirm our commitment in ensuring safety of life and property at sea and prevention of maritime pollution through full and effective implementation and enforcement of all laws, regulations, and recommendations, in adherence to our international responsibilities and obligations,” Bautista saidt
Through the audit, which assists member-states to improve their capacity for implementing international conventions, the Philippines promotes uniformity and effectiveness in the implementation of IMO instruments, Bautista added.
“Having these mechanisms, we were able to champion our legislative agenda and ensure the continuous advancement of maritime interest in the country,” he said.
The country’s participation in the IMSAS aims to enhance the effectiveness and consistency of IMO instrument implementation while aiding other member states in improving their capabilities.
The Maritime Industry Authority, with the IMSAS Technical Working Group and other concerned maritime stakeholders, had conducted gap analysis scoping exercises, inter-agency meetings, mock audit and capacity building activities in preparation for this year’s audit.
The IMSAS serves as a vital avenue for the Philippines to contribute to global maritime standards while furthering its commitment to acceding to IMO and International Labour Organization conventions and protocols.
Since its membership in 1964, the Philippines has ratified and acceded to 28 IMO Conventions, and the country is now in the process of acceding to other IMO and ILO conventions and protocols.
