Advocating Philippine maritime industry

ADVOCATES for a progressive Philippine maritime industry are convinced their efforts will pay off notwithstanding the long-drawn-out campaign for reforms in maritime policy, legislation, and institutional framework. The national tagline for a maritime and archipelagic awareness program hardly made a dent as it has become just that a catchphrase to be celebrated during September.

In the interim, the "blue economy" is gaining attention as development planning gurus and maritime advocates allude to this concept as the best platform for this country to optimize its archipelagic endowment. The many benefits that the seas offer receive high publicity in many fora and dialogues that one can easily believe that the maritime industry will finally be a priority in the national agenda.