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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH reaffirms commitment to responsible use of oceans

PH reaffirms commitment to responsible use of oceans

Published Sep 28, 2023 05:59 am

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on Thursday, Sept. 28, called for the “responsible use of our oceans” and the implementation of sustainable practices to fight avoid maritime pollution and environmental degradation.

WMD_ocean.jpgA pod of dolphins in the seas off Cateel town in Davao Oriental. (Photo courtesy of Kyle Jennerman/ BecomingFilipino Facebook page)

In a statement for the occasion of the World Maritime Day 2023, the official expressed the Philippines’ “earnest support” to combating marine pollution and “safeguarding the precious oceans that unite our world through the robust maritime industry.”

“The Philippines proudly reaffirms its steadfast commitment to address marine pollution and foster a greener shipping industry. We recognize that the preservation of our oceans transcends borders and demands collective action of maritime industries,” he said.

“As a maritime and archipelagic nation, we bear a shared responsibility to ensure their vitality for present and future generations,” Manalo added.

At the heart of the collaborative initiatives that the Philippines joined “to reduce emissions, adopt cleaner technologies, and implement sustainable practices that harmonize economic progress with environmental well-being,” is the principles of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).

This year’s theme for the World Maritime Day is "MARPOL at 50 - Our Commitment Goes On,” which underscores the need to protect the oceans from pollution caused by ships from operational or accidental causes.

According to the United Nations’ (UN) website, the theme “reflects the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) long history of protecting the environment from the impact of shipping via a robust regulatory framework and emphasizes its ongoing commitment to this important work.”

Manalo then also called to boost the country’s efforts in protecting the marine environment.

“Let us all reaffirm our dedication to the sustainable and responsible use of our oceans and embrace the legacy of MARPOL to amplify our efforts in protecting marine ecosystems for the prosperity of our planet and all its inhabitants,” he said.

Related Tags

oceans Enrique Manalo World Maritime Day MARPOL International Maritime Organization
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