The Philippine government has launched its candidature for a seat in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for 2024-2025 as it cited the country's maritime credentials, including its capacity to produce competent maritime professionals and its status as one of the largest shipbuilding countries in the world.
That was done through the co-hosting of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and MARINA of a diplomatic reception, where they launched MARINA's bid for IMO Council, the DFA said Monday, Oct. 2.
IMO is a specialized agency of the UN that is responsible for measures to improve the safety and security of international shipping and to prevent pollution from ships, it said on its website.
The Philippines fell under the council's Category C—or the 20 States that are not elected under other categories but "have special interests in maritime transport or navigation, and whose election to the Council will ensure the representation of all major geographic areas of the world," according to IMO.
Serving as one of the keynote speakers, DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo promoted the country's candidature by saying that "safety at sea is particularly crucial for the Philippines as the top global source of maritime professionals."
"Ensuring the safety of Filipino seafarers through implementation of International Maritime Organization (IMO) conventions and agreements is a key national interest," he said.
Manalo noted that the Philippines is a party to 28 IMO Conventions. It is also in the process of acceding to other relevant IMO and International Labor Organization (ILO) Conventions and Protocols.
"Through its active engagement in the IMO, the Philippines remains at the forefront in improving the welfare of seafarers around the world and promoting international cooperation for marine environmental protection and a vibrant and responsible maritime shipping industry," he said.
"If re-elected to the IMO Council, the Philippines will continue to be a voice of developing countries and actively promote the interests of seafarers—upon whom the global maritime industry and commerce depend," he added.
According to the DFA, elections for the IMO Council will be held from November 27 to December 6 in London.