Workshops promote maritime decarbonization in The Philippines

The International Maritime Organization (IMO), in partnership with national authorities and with the World Maritime University (WMU), has delivered a national workshop under the SMART-C GHG Project, advancing efforts to accelerate maritime decarbonization in the Philippines.

Green shipping momentum in the Philippines

Building on this momentum, the Philippines hosted the “Accelerating Maritime Decarbonization in the Philippines through Data, Innovation, and Collaboration” National Workshop in Cebu (13-16 April).

The event formally launched the country’s engagement under the SMART-C GHG Project and set the direction for subsequent technical work.

The workshop brought together a range of government agencies, along with port authorities, shipping companies, shipyards, academia and research organizations.

Participants assessed maritime data collection in the Philippines, identifying challenges in the collection, sharing and integration of emissions-related data. They explored international practices, IMO guidance and national regulatory frameworks,  aligning domestic measures with the IMO GHG Strategy and MARPOL Annex VI.

Study visits to Cebu Port, including onboard observation of passenger ships, allowed participants to examine energy efficiency measures and fuel oil consumption records.

The workshop established priority actions, focal points and an indicative timeline for developing the national emissions baseline and progressing NAP preparation.

Data systems to boost decarbonization

Workshops in the Philippines underscored the need for robust data systems and stakeholder engagement inclusive stakeholder engagement. They emphasized incorporating domestic shipping into data collection and National Action Plans, while promoting effective, evidence-based NAPs.

The SMART-C GHG Project, funded by the Republic of Korea, supports participating countries in building capacity to implement the IMO GHG Strategy and reduce emissions from international shipping.

Read the full IMO news article: Workshops promote maritime decarbonization in South-East Asia